At Monday nights 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM), Chief Executive Officer Corey Kennett was awarded with Life Membership for his service to the Horowhenua Kapiti Rugby Football Union (HKRFU).
Corey begun his journey in the Nua as a player for Levin College Old Boys before making his Heartland debut as representative number 897 in 1991. Corey would also be a part of the first Horowhenua Kapiti team to ever win a championship in 1993. In the meantime, Corey had begun his working career within the HKRFU as Rugby Development Officer, followed by Sponsorship Manager. He would then go on to spend some time playing rugby over in the UK and Europe before making the trip back home where he would resume his employment for the Union.
Corey has held many positions within his time at HKRFU. Some will know him as manager, coach, teammate, waterboy, and more well known, CEO. Corey has worked for HK for 20 years but held the role of CEO for 16 as of next week, and has seen massive amounts of growth within the Union during his time. His most recent achievement in his role as CEO being the completion of the new HKRFU Headquarters. Chair John Cribb shares: “Corey has been a vital part of this Union for many years now, and the pride he shows for this province is second to none. HKRFU wouldn’t be in the position it is now if it wasn’t for Corey and his continued service and solidarity. Theres no one more deserving than Corey to be awarded this Life Membership”. Corey was very humbled to receive Life Membership of HKRFU, “I am incredibly honoured to receive Life Membership of HKRFU, within my time associated with HKRFU I have had three Families, my rugby Family, my work Family, and my Family at home. All three have been a critical part of contributing to making my time at HKRFU so enjoyable. A huge thank you to my three boys Nick, Ollie, & Jack, thank you for supporting me and for being the awesome Men you are. Special thank you to my Queen, My Wife Esta. Thank you, Darling, for always backing me, for always supporting me, and for always being there. I love my job, I love our amazing HK community, and I will feel forever thankful to be a part of HKRFU”. Corey always strives to succeed, and whilst he always aims to improve HKRFU, he also works towards the betterment of all Heartland Provincial Unions.
Congratulations Corey, the HKRFU and its community thank you and show our appreciation for all you have done, and continue to achieve.