The former NSW Country representative will throw his hat into the ring at either fullback, wing, centre or five-eighth when the Vikings kick off their 2021 campaign in late April.

While personal commitments will prevent him from running out in the opening-round clash with Port Macquarie, Kennedy was looking forward to the challenge of a new club.

"I'm not sure what the guys want from me," he said.

"It's more that I'm available and have the experience to fill whatever gaps have been left by players that have left or injuries.

"I don't have any huge expectations of playing first grade every week, I just want to help the club out and get the family involved with the club; that's the big one."

With former NSW Country halfback and now co-coach Adam Mccormack at the club, Kennedy said the move was an easy one.

"I used to play NSW Country with Adam, we had a few mutual friends and he spoke to me and I thought it would be nice to get to know a few people in town," Kennedy said.

"I also wanted to get a bit more active so I joined the Vikings and am loving every minute of it so far."

That even includes completing his first full pre-season in a decade.

"I haven't done a full pre-season since 2011 and it's definitely the hardest one I've ever done," he said.

"The hills around Shelly Beach were really tough and I didn't think the body was going to get through."

After a tough year playing for Newcastle University last year, Kennedy was hopeful of taking advantage of the Vikings success.

They've held onto the trophy for 18 months after their grand final victory in 2019.

"I know the Vikings have been very successful and they've been in the last four grand finals in a row," he said.

"Very much looking forward to being part of a successful club because uni hasn't been very successful in Newcastle over the last few years.

"I'm excited to get involved with guys who love their rugby and play hard every week."

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