In a Civic Ceremony on Monday afternoon, Mayor of Gosford City, Councillor Laurie Maher presented the Central Coast Mariners with the Keys to Gosford City for their contribution to the City.
In a Civic Ceremony on Monday afternoon, Mayor of Gosford City, Councillor Laurie Maher presented the Central Coast Mariners with the Keys to Gosford City for their contribution to the City.
The award recognises the Mariners for their excellent performances since the inception of the Hyundai A-League competition.
Since beginning as a foundation club in 2005/06 the Mariners have won the Premiers Plate in 2007/08 and 2011/12, made three Grand Finals and are currently in the midst of their second AFC Asians Champion League Campaign.
Councillor Maher said that the Central Coast is home to one of the most successful clubs in the A-League-s short history.
“The Mariners have achieved wonderful successes on the field over the last seven seasons and this is just one way that we can recognise their achievements.
“While the award recognised the team-s efforts on the field, it was also an acknowledgement of their contribution to the local community.
“The Central Coast Mariners have become an institution within our region, with players and coaching staff contributing considerably to our community
“The team has strongly supported grassroots football with coaching clinics; promoted a healthy lifestyle amongst youth with their MarinerACTIVE Schools Program and supported local charities and fundraising initiatives.
“It is this contribution off the field that has been able to win over many Central Coast fans and is a real credit to the culture of the club,” said Councillor Maher.
Gosford City Council General Manager, Mr Peter Wilson said that the Mariners success had significantly lifted the profile of Central Coast around Australia and the world.
“With the Mariners performing strongly in the A-League and their participation in the AFC Asian Champions League they have put the spotlight on the Central Coast region.
“We look forward to their continued success over the coming seasons with many exciting young prospects leading the charge to remain at the top of the A-League competition,” said Mr. Wilson.
Captain of the Central Coast Mariners, Alex Wilkinson said that it was a great honour for the club to receive this accolade.
“The club receiving the Keys to the City is something really special, not only does this recognise the achievements of the players and coaching staff but also the hard work of the people behind the scenes who have built such a great club.
“Each and every one of the players and staff are proud to be able to represent the Central Coast and we would like to extend our thanks to Gosford Council for this award,” said Mr Wilkinson.
