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Central Coast Mariners are preparing to enter the market for a marquee signing on the back of the exposure and experience of hosting Usain Bolt’s whirlwind trial to become a professional footballer.
The Jamaican sprinter officially cut ties with the club on Friday after failing to reach an agreement over a professional contract but the door remains open for high profile stars to arrive in his place by the start of 2019. While the Mariners couldn’t play the role of an alchemist in turning the world’s fastest man into a professional footballer, the club struck gold in sponsorships and exposure that has put them in a financial position to sign foreign stars in the January transfer window.
It’s understood no fewer than six commercial partners struck deals with the Mariners since Bolt’s trial began in August, boosting the club’s bottom line significantly. Central Coast also gained unprecedented exposure overseas, gaining a five-fold increase in their social media accounts in two months.
The club has previously not been regarded as a viable destination for marquee signings. Following their off-field success with Bolt, the Mariners believe they can compete in the market for big-name signings once the A-League transfer window reopens in January.
“What we’ve been able to do is put our club in a position to be a serious contender to sign marquee players,” Mariners chief executive Shaun Mielekamp said. ” It would make sense for us. If we have a competitive half season and we need a shot in the arm, it would well be worth the investment.”
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