The recent history of CYs football has been marked by many firsts, thanks to the growth and success of our women’s program. The first club goal in Round 1, 2018. The first Best and Fairest winner. The first premiership players. The first senior women’s match in Premier A. Scarlett Kennedy’s name is etched into every one of these milestones—and now, she becomes the first CYs women’s player to reach 100 games.
The quietest of achievers, Scarlett has always embodied the very best of CYs footy. Every action on the field says, “Follow me—I know the way,” without ever needing to say a word. That’s Scarlett’s style to a tee.
The Kennedy family has proudly walked every step of the journey with her—often flanked by two little blue-and-gold-clad sausage dogs. Scarlett wears the colours well. A proud product of our club, she began her CYs journey in junior girls’ football in 2011 and has since gone on to represent the club in both senior football and cricket.
Scarlett was the first goal scorer, the first Best and Fairest winner, and a member of the first premiership team in the senior women’s program. While her elite work rate and competitive spirit have long been admired, it’s her tactical nous and calm presence that have truly set her apart. She reads the game with instinct and intelligence, often stepping up in crucial moments to deliver exactly what’s needed.
Reaching 100 games is an extraordinary achievement in an era where shortened seasons, COVID disruptions, and a fledgling fixture made such milestones harder to come by. It’s a testament to Scarlett’s resilience, commitment, and unwavering dedication to the rise of women’s football at the CYs.
Now a playing coach, Scarlett notches her 100th game as a deeply respected leader—one who has played alongside every CYs women’s footballer in the program’s eight-year history. And if you ask them what Scarlett means to this club, their words say it best.
“Scarlett is the heart and soul of this team and always has been. I can’t think of someone more deserving of going down in history as the first player to reach the 100 games milestone for the CYs. I know I am extremely lucky to have called Scarlett my teammate for the past 7 years—and the last couple of seasons, my captain.”
— Hannah Elliott
“Scar is not just a teammate—she is the heartbeat of our team. Her passion and consistency on the field make her such an instrumental player for us, someone we can always count on when it matters. The legacy she leaves behind is more than just stats—it’s culture, unity, and spirit.”
— Steph Martin (née Basile)
From her first game to her hundredth, Scarlett has led with heart, humility, and purpose. Her legacy is not only in the games played or goals kicked, but in the culture she’s helped build and the inspiration she’s given to the next generation.
Congratulations, Scarlett. Thank you for your incredible and continuing contribution to the CYs. There is no one more deserving of being the first to 100 games.
