New Central Coast Mariners recruit Jacob Poscoliero, 24, says he’s looking to make the most of his second chance at life as a professional footballer.
At the Club’s annual Fan Day in Gosford on Saturday, Poscoliero was announced to the crowd as the yellow and navy’s latest signing for the Hyundai A-League 2014/15 season.
Poscoliero, who can play in a range of positions across the park, joined the Mariners from Blacktown City Demons in the New South Wales National Premier Leagues competition having previously played professionally in Italy’s lower tiers.
“Central Coast Mariners have given me a great opportunity and I just hope to take it with both hands,” Poscoliero said on Wednesday.
“I have always wanted to be a footballer since I was a young kid. Things didn’t work out [in Italy] so I hope to take this opportunity at the Mariners.”
“It’s always been my ambition to play at the highest level, and thankfully they’ve [Central Coast Mariners] given me this opportunity.”
Originally from Western Sydney, Poscoliero moved to Italy as a 17-year-old, and following a successful trial secured a contract with Seria C side Bassano.
He was later loaned out to Seria D’s Sandona, immersing himself in the all-consuming nature of the Italian game.
“It was a great experience,” Poscoliero said of his Italian adventure. “I found it difficult the first six months but after that I sort of found my way into and it became quite good.”
Central Coast Mariners Assistant Coach Wayne O’Sullivan said that Poscoliero is the first player to arrive at the Mariners in association with the Club’s freshly established scouting network.
“Through our scouting network he [Poscoliero] was identified in Sydney,” O’Sullivan said. “He brings a level of experience to the Club through his overseas trips, he’s well-established in the local state league, he plays centre back, right back, and has been known to play in midfield as well, so he gives us a lot of versatility and a lot of quality.”
“Jacob’s position is basically to add more depth, more quality, more competition right the way along the backline. He’s here to compete for a first team place,” O’Sullivan concluded.
Poscoliero will wear the number 4 jersey for Central Coast Mariners throughout Hyundai A-League season ten.
