The 22-year-old joined the Mariners ahead of the 2017/18 season, and has now established himself as a crucial part of the Mariners’ spine, forming a formidable partnership at the back with Ruon Tongyik this past season.
Rowles made 127 clearances, 25 blocks and 44 interceptions across his 27 matches, playing the third most minutes of anyone in the Mariners squad this season.
With the Mariners season now over, Rowles said he cannot wait to get started in the next campaign and has found something of a second home on the Coast as he prepares for his fifth campaign in Yellow and Navy.
“This year was definitely a great year for everyone involved, and I’m excited to now have that as the foundation and to build on it in the future,” he said.
“I’ve kind of found a second home really, and it just goes to show how friendly everyone is here and how good the club is to be at.”
?️"She just rang me, and she was in tears, and then I started crying as well."
Always a big supporter of #PinkRound, Kye Rowles has a very personal connection to the cause this year after his Mum's diagnosis with Breast Cancer. #CCMFC #WontBackDown
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— Central Coast Mariners (@CCMariners) March 6, 2021
Rowles took on a different role in the squad this season outside of his normal defensive duties too, joining the leadership group with senior players Matt Simon, Oliver Bozanic and Mark Birighitti.
While only young himself, the Olyroos hopeful said it was a great experience for him to help other young players in the squad.
“We all knew who the senior boys were, but it was good being a young player trying to guide the younger ones too,” he said.
“When we’re all on the field together we all need to be leaders just as much as each other, so in that regard it helped a lot and for myself as well it made me want to produce the best I could every day.”
“And to show them that the seasons that we have had, it’s all about mentality and if you want something bad enough it will come to fruition if you work hard enough for it.”
Central Coast Mariners Head of Football Ken Schembri commended Rowles’ season and praised the youngster for his on and off field contribution.
“We’re delighted to have Kye committed to the Club for another two years,” Schembri said.
“His play at the back this year was so important to our success, and together with his strong football partnership with Ruon [Tongyik] and Dan [Hall], that gives us a solid platform for our continued performance on the pitch.”
