"I think the most important thing for any coach is to have a group of happy players whose welfare is a top priority for the association," he told BBC Sport.
"This has been a great tour, happy, players mixing with fans, everything's been lovely and... this morning it's all gone to pieces," said Bennett.
The result is a happy Vermeil as well as happy players, some of whom are winning for the first time in their careers.
"There are a lot of tired bodies in the dressing room, but happy players too.
The fundamental issue of the tour remains, however, that of all the fit, happy players that have come to New Zealand, fewer than a dozen have enhanced their reputation.
The Tigers ended up winning, 5-4, and Kelly was one of the happy players in the Comerica Park locker room.
Hawaii's coaches lay on the field as their happy players trotted around showing off their championship banner.
Shots boss Dean Holdsworth told BBC Surrey: "Luke and I had a frank conversation and I have detected that he has not been a happy and motivated player recently.
They also have a happy knack of improving players.
