PREMIERSHIP midfielder Josh Kennedy will remain with the Sydney Swans until at least the end of 2017 after signing on for another four years.
The long-term deal marks a significant milestone for Kennedy, who was squeezed out of his beloved Hawthorn at the end of 2009 after playing just 13 games with the club his father and grandfather represented with distinction.
At the Swans he has become one of the game's best ball-winners.
In his three seasons in Sydney, the 24-year-old has finished third (2010), second (2011) and first (2012) in the Swans' best-and-fairest award. Last year he was also one of the club's best players in the Grand Final and earned All Australian selection.
"I will be forever grateful to the Swans for this opportunity," he told The Daily Telegraph.
"When I came here four years ago, to think that I would be in the position that I'm in now signing another four-year deal is an amazing feeling …
"It was something I always wanted to do and, given the opportunity, I felt that I could turn things around for myself and the Swans were willing to give me that opportunity.
"They were really clear with what they expected from me in my role and it's just gone from there with games and confidence. I just love being part of this group with ... my teammates who are now my family up here. It's a fantastic journey and hopefully it's still only beginning."
Josh Kennedy is a midfielder in NAB AFL Fantasy. He averaged 103.08 points in 2012. Register your team at our AFL Fantasy Hub.
