Usain Bolt’s A-League adventure is official, as the fastest man in history signs for the Central Coast Mariners for an indefinite training stint.
According to the club, “the agreement between the Central Coast Mariners and Usain Bolt does not guarantee a professional playing contract but does provide the eight-time Olympic gold medallist with an opportunity to achieve his burning desire to play football professionally”.
It isn’t the first time Bolt will train with a professional football club, as he has spent time with Borussia Dortmund, Mamelodi Sundowns FC and Strømsgodset in the past.
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“I am very excited about coming to Australia and would like to thank the owner and management of the Central Coast Mariners for giving me this opportunity,” Bolt said.
“It has been my dream to play professional football and I know that it will involve a lot of hard work and training to get to the level required to play and make an impact in the A-League.
“When I spoke to the Head Coach Mike Mulvey on the phone he outlined the ambitions of the club and his plans for the upcoming season.
“I hope I can make a positive contribution to the club and look forward to meeting the other players, staff and fans in the coming weeks.
“I always say that ‘anything is possible, don't think limits’ and I look forward to the challenge.”
Mariners CEO Shaun Mielekamp welcomed Bolt to the club with open arms.
“Our goal is to be the most innovative, entertaining and community minded sports brand in Australia, this is our competitive edge,” Mielekamp said.
“Having Usain Bolt come to the club to train and hopefully develop into a professional football player is perfectly aligned to this part of the club’s philosophy.
“It is important that we don’t get too caught up in the hype of possibilities, but the reality is that Usain Bolt has placed his faith in the Central Coast Mariners to accelerate his football journey.
“Whilst we all know this must be tempered with the reality that there is a job to do and hard work ahead, we are committed to building a team that will win matches and instil belief, hopefully Usain can help us on this mission.
“We welcome Usain with open arms, and we will always remain grounded and focused on the job at hand.
“I also look forward to seeing the Central Coast catching the attention of sports lovers all over the world.
“Sports lovers who will join us and dare to dream, sports lovers who truly believe that only those who are brave enough to try and do the impossible are capable of achieving anything.”