Kernick earned the biggest honour of her career on Wednesday night, with the Sydney Roosters second-rower beating out Abbi Church and Lauren Brown to take the top prize.
A revelation on the right edge this year for the Roosters, Kernick now calls the Gold Coast home but has traditionally stayed at a childhood home on the Central Coast during NRLW seasons.
Kernick in action during the Roosters' NRLW semi-final win over the Knights. (Mark Evans/AAP PHOTOS)
But after the Roosters were upset in the semi-finals for the past two seasons, Kernick, fellow Central Coast junior Keeley David and Newcastle resident Millie Elliott all opted to base themselves in Sydney this year.
"Travelling to and from and we're in Sydney three or four or five times a week, it actually takes a big toll on recovery and your mental health," Kernick said.
"It's a four-hour round trip, and Millie was driving back to Newcastle which was insane.
"Everyone gave up a lot, relationships are affected, family, home life. But everyone has been so committed.
"I am super grateful to the girls for really buying in this year and committing just that little bit more."
Kernick's move has paid off in spades, with the Roosters reaching Sunday's NRLW grand final against Cronulla and the 23-year-old having the best season of her career.
Fittingly, roommates Elliott and Davis were also named in the NRLW Dally M team of the year.
"I don't know if it was the roommates, moving into Coogee and Millie keeping us healthy with all the healthy cooking she does," Kernick quipped.
"But, seriously, this year everyone really bought in and made sure they were doing those extra recoveries, because the drive does affect our recovery and training.
"We're a close-knit group this year, more than normal. And we've really connected on and off the field."
Kernick won a premiership in her rookie 2021 season, but has the chance to join Brittany Brealey, Ali Brigginshaw and Tamika Upton as players to win the Dally M and NRLW title in the same year.
"That would obviously a dream come true," Kernick said.
"I would love to win another premiership at the Roosters. They are a great club. We have worked so hard, not just this year but the last three years."
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