He was a two-time Honorable Mention All-American catcher for Elon University between 1988–1990, and was later selected in the 9th round of the 1990 Major League Baseball Draft.

Kennedy was selected to serve as the pitching coach for the USA Baseball's Collegiate National Team during the summer.[when?]

With each victory tallied, Kennedy adds to his record for the most wins by an Elon baseball coach that he set in 2003.

In 2012, Kennedy led his Phoenix squad to yet another top-three finish in the SoCon as the maroon and gold went 33–26 overall and 20–10 in league action.

Following the year, four Elon players were selected in the Major League Baseball draft and a fifth signed a free agent contract.

Four members of the squad were also recognized with all-league accolades, including John Brebbia, who was chosen as the SoCon Pitcher of the Year.