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Bolting out of the A-League: Usain's Central Coast sojourn comes to an end

2nd November, 2018
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2nd November, 2018
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The chances of Usain Bolt appearing in the A-League have passed, with the Central Coast Mariners today confirming the Jamaican’s time with the club has come to an end.

Bolt joined the Mariners for an ‘indefinite training period’ earlier in the year in the hope of making it as a professional footballer. However, while the three-time Olympian made it onto the field for Central Coast in two trial games – the second of which he scored a brace in – it was clear his poor touch and general lack of footballing nous would make succeeding in the A-League little more than an impossibility.

The Mariners did table an offer to Bolt a couple of weeks ago, however the club admitted at the time that, without the backing of a third party, a deal was never likely to eventuate.

Central Coast claimed the split between the two parties was “amicable”, with both concluding a suitable deal would be unable to be settled on.

“I would like to thank the Central Coast Mariners owners, management, staff, players and fans for making me feel so welcome during my time there. I wish the club success for the season ahead,” Bolt said.

Mariners owner Mike Charlesworth spoke in similarly friendly terms in announcing Bolt’s departure.

“Despite the fact that we could not come to an agreement that would continue Usain Bolt’s football journey with the Central Coast Mariners, we’ve been thrilled to have the Olympic champion sprinter and world record holder as part of our Club for these past eight weeks,” Charlesworth.

“For the Mariners, it’s been a pleasure to work with Usain as he pursued his desire to become a professional football player.

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“This has been a mutually beneficial partnership that brought an increased level of excitement and attention to both the Mariners and the Hyundai A-League. From day one, Usain dedicated himself to being part of the Mariners. He integrated very well into the team and made great strides as a footballer.

“Most notable was his performance in Campbelltown where he scored two goals helping the Mariners secure a 4-0 win against Macarthur South West United.

“Whilst we understand that Usain will not be part of the Club going forward, the Central Coast Mariners wish him all the best in his future endeavours and we hope that opportunities arise to collaborate in other capacities in the future.”

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