Pristine beaches, crystal-clear waterways, and a calm, easy-going atmosphere. These are the hallmarks of the Central Coast of New South Wales. Yet, nestled within this tranquil landscape lies a powerhouse. The Central Coast Mariners may call this serene coastal region home, but don’t be fooled by the calm surroundings – this team is a tough, determined force on the football field, embodying a spirit of resilience and hard work that sets them apart.

Spend some time around the club and with the team and you’ll soon understand. On a recent visit, two of the club’s star players, Harry Steele and Annalise Rasmussen, showed us the ropes, giving a glimpse into the inner workings of this successful squad.

The Mariners Way

When asked about the secret to their team's success, Harry laughs, “I can’t tell you that!” But it's clear that the magic behind their victories is no one thing. From the moment you step onto the grounds, the spirit of the place surrounds you. Whether it’s the stadium that helps them win or the back-end staff who believe it's all in the perfect preparation of uniforms, everyone has their own take. The truth, however, might be much simpler.

Annalise, one of the team’s standout players, cuts to the heart of it: “What I can tell you is it all comes down to hard work – really hard work.” It’s a sentiment echoed by every member of the club.

A Spirit That’s Real

The day starts early for the team as they gather for morning training. “How good is an early start here at Mariners HQ, I love the spirit of this place,” Harry says, as he steps out of the Isuzu D-MAX and gestures to the pitch.

Their focus is razor-sharp, with big games constantly looming, but the camaraderie keeps the atmosphere light. The dressing room banter starts off upbeat and friendly, but the conversation quickly turns to the next challenge ahead. It’s a sign of the team’s relentless dedication and confidence.

Overcoming Adversity

What truly sets this club apart is its resilience. “The thing about this club is we never give up,” Annalise reflects. "I think overcoming adversity defines us.” Injuries, gym work, physio sessions, tough matches and extensive travel are all just part of the journey that the team takes in its stride.

Building From Within

For the Mariners, success is also about building a strong foundation from the ground up. The club’s junior academy is a key pillar, developing players who rise through the ranks to compete at the highest level.

“Success is important to us as a club. Success on the field is what we strive for every day. But the more important thing is how we produce young players,” says Mark Jackson, Men’s Head Coach, reflecting on the club’s commitment to fostering talent.

More than half of the current squad has come from the academy, including Harry and Annalise themselves. “Born and bred, just like you,” Annalise says to Harry, recalling their shared journey through the program. It’s not just about creating great players; it’s about nurturing a culture that breeds perseverance and loyalty.

Giving Back to the Community

It’s impossible to talk about the club’s success without mentioning their deep connection to the community. The club travels in their Isuzu D-MAX running regular community clinics for juniors, and the players all love interacting with fans.

As the leader of the junior academy squad puts it, “Getting into the community and running clinics is something we love doing. It’s not just about teaching the next generation of players; it’s about inspiring them. When you see how much the kids get out of it, it’s like you’re looking into the future.”

Memories and Milestones

With such a rich history, the team has plenty of memories to draw upon. The Men’s team was the first team to win the Australian trophy treble, including being crowned the Isuzu UTE A-League Champions – a feat still celebrated by fans. “When the crowd goes crazy, there’s nothing like it,” Harry says, recalling the unforgettable roar of their loyal supporters.

As the conversation circles back to the original question – what’s the secret to the team’s success? Harry and Annalise finally share their answer. “100% the fans. Tight-knit community,” they say, in unison. It’s the people who stand by them, the ones who cheer them on through every victory and defeat, who truly make the team what it is today.

The success of this club isn’t about any one thing. It’s the blend of hard work, a strong academy, an unwavering community spirit, and a commitment to overcoming every challenge that comes their way. In the end, the secret to their success lies not just in their talent, but in their deep connection to the place they call home.

For more details about the partnership between Isuzu UTE Australia and the A-Leagues, visit the A-Leagues Partnership Page.