Trent Sainsbury has been named captain of the Central Coast Mariners men’s Isuzu UTE A-League team for the upcoming 24/25 season.
The Socceroos defender returned home to the Coast late last month, signing for the Mariners after spending the past 10 years playing overseas.
During his first stint with the club, Sainsbury made almost 70 appearances in the yellow and navy, including playing the full 90 minutes in the Mariners first grand final win in 2013.
Following a long and successful career overseas which included three domestic trophies, on top of an Asian Cup and 61 appearances so far for the Socceroos, Sainsbury opted to return home by putting pen to paper on a three-year Mariners contract.
The 32-year-old will now wear the armband in his first season back with the club, being awarded the captaincy following the retirement of previous captain and Mariners legend, Danny Vukovic.
Speaking after officially being named as captain in front of the entire squad, Sainsbury said he was proud to be leading the team as it entered the AFC Champions League Elite and looks to defend its Isuzu UTE A-League title.
“It is a huge privilege to get to wear the armband this season. To come back to where it all started and be awarded the captaincy is very special and something that gives me great pride,” Sainsbury said.
“Vuka is an incredible person to have around the club and was an amazing captain of this team over the past two seasons.
“He will be missed greatly, and it is time for me to step up and fill those shoes. To receive the armband from Vuka himself was a really nice touch.
“This is an exciting season for the club, being the captain of this team is a big responsibility and I look forward to leading the boys onto the pitch with courage ready to always fight for the three points.”
Central Coast Mariners Head Coach Mark Jackson said Brian Kaltak said two of the many reasons that Sainsbury was brought back to the club were his vast experience as well as his leadership skills.
“We lost a fantastic leader in Danny Vukovic at the end of last season, but we believe that Trent will be able to fill his shoes really well,” Jackson said.
“I expect to have a team full of leaders this season, however we feel that Trent has the incredible leadership skills which will help the squad both on and off the pitch.”
Brian Kaltak will be vice-captain.
“Even though he has only been in the professional game for a few years, his experience, leadership and character are all first class,” Jackson said.