Central Coast Mariners Academy graduate Annalise Rasmussen has signed a two-year contract extension, keeping her on the Coast until at least the end of the 2025/26 season.
Initially joining the Mariners academy as an 11-year-old, Rasmussen rose through the ranks before becoming the first Liberty A-League signing in the Mariner’s return season.
Aged just 18 when she made her Liberty A-League debut in front of more than 5,000 fans in the F3 Derby, Rasmussen ultimately made 21 appearances throughout the campaign.
She scored three goals as the team reached the semi-finals, the most notable being against Wellington in round five, which ended up being the winner that secured the Mariners their first victory at home of the season.
Used regularly as an impact substitute throughout the campaign, making the most substitute appearances of anyone in the league last year, the 19-year-old is thrilled to have signed a new contract to keep her on the Coast.
“I am super excited to extend my contract with the Mariners for another two seasons,” Rasmussen said.
“This is my local team, having come through the Academy, so I am looking forward to continuing to wear the yellow and navy.
“Last season being my first in the league, it was a great experience, and I am looking to build on that.
“I learnt so much from being a part of the team, especially from Emily.
“I can’t wait to continue to learn and grow here this year and for the season to get started.”
Central Coast Mariners head coach Emily Husband said she was pleased to have secured an extremely promising talent like Rasmussen for another two years.
“Annalise represents the Central Coast so well,” Husband said.
“She has been a part of the club for so long and is a young player with a really bright future.
“She made a massive impact off the bench for us last season, and we want her to continue to build on that with us moving forward.
“We see her as a big part of the future of this team, and her signing a two-year contract allows stability for everyone and the perfect opportunity for her to continue to grow as a Mariner.”