The wingman endured a tough second season in the AFL following a breakout debut year with the inaugural playing group, but still managed to finish the 2012 AFL Season in strong fashion by averaging 19 disposals in the last seven games of the year.
The man dubbed the “Cannon” forms part of the nucleus that is an exciting midfield, and GC SUNS General Manager Football Operations Manager Marcus Ashcroft said that McKenzie’s signature had been one of the club’s main priorities heading into the 2013 AFL Season.
“This is the second time we have extended the contracts of Trent (McKenzie), Zac (Smith) and Seb (Tape) and it further demonstrates our belief that we have a group of players who are intent on bringing success to our football club” Ashcroft said.
Speaking at the GC SUNS major media conference, McKenzie said it was the emerging culture of professionalism and growing confidence around the Club that convinced the 39-game midfielder to continue his AFL in the tourist capital.
“I definitely feel as though we are on our way to building something pretty special at the Club,” said McKenzie.
“We are all pretty close and are maturing together… to think that the team started as a group of teenagers whose dreams were of playing professional football probably highlights how far we have come and how committed our group is to delivering success to the GC SUNS.”
Despite enduring a frustrating summer of training after recovering from knee tendonitis, the 192cm Victorian has firmly set his sights on taking his game to another level this season.
“It’s been a tough pre-season for myself but I know it’s going to be a big season ahead,” McKenzie said.
“Hopefully I can get on track pretty soon and contribute to the playing group by playing some pretty good footy.”
