Arguably the success story of the Mariners’ third Hyundai A-League season, luckless defender Boogaard over delivered on the potential that was predicted of him before his previous two injury and illness affected seasons on the Central Coast. Sought out by the Mariners coaching staff ahead of the clubs inaugural campaign, much was expected of the Australian youth international before glandular fever sidelined the outstanding young prospect for all but one minute of the Hyundai A-League 2005/06 season. Season two was no better – Osteitis Pubis keeping Boogaard away from competitive action for another full season, casting serious doubts over the playing future of a talent that was considered one of Australia’s brightest prospects just two years earlier. However, 2007/08 saw Boogaard fulfill his promise in yellow and navy with a season that can only be described as exceptional. Comfortable in any position across the Mariners’ backline, Boogaard was a standout contributor to the Mariners’ defensive steel and consequently, was belatedly capped for his country at Qantas Under 23 level.