The Central Coast Mariners can today confirm that Matt Simon has been named Club Captain ahead of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 season.
As the Central Coast Mariners’ all-time leading goal scorer, Simon becomes the club’s sixth full time captain joining the likes of: Noel Spencer, Alex Wilkinson, John Hutchinson, Nick Montgomery and Alan Baro.
The East Gosford junior has bagged 46 goals in the Hyundai A-League for the Yellow & Navy after signing his first professional contract in 2006 from Central Coast Lightning.
At the completion of the 2008/09 season which saw the Mariners finish in fourth position on the ladder, Simon was voted by his peers as the best player, claiming the 2009 #MarinersMedal.
After three seasons with Sydney FC where Simon was crowned a Hyundai A-League Champion, the 32-year-old marksman joined Mike Mulvey’s Mariners, signing a two-year-contract.
Simon touted the appointment as Club Captain of his hometown team, a proud moment.
“This is a really proud moment for myself coming back to the club where it all began,” Simon said. “To be able to captain the team this year in such a promising time is very exciting and we’re all looking forward to what’s ahead this season.
“I was lucky enough to play with Noel Spencer, Alex Wilkinson, John Hutchinson and Nick Montgomery – those four guys have all had a big part to play in the club’s culture. The biggest thing I’ve learnt from them is to ensure the culture in the change room is maintained because that was a big part of why the club was so successful in the early years of the competition. At Sydney FC, Brosquey [Alex Brosque] was an incredible captain who led with his performances week in week out.
“I’ll be taking a little bit from each of those captains, but also doing my own thing – it’s an honour to be a captain of this team but this season there are a lot of leaders in the squad.
“I want to lead with my actions. I’ve always been the type of player to talk on the field, the biggest thing for me is not to change the way I play, it’s always important to ensure you lead with your individual performances,” Simon said.
Get down to The Football Grounds this Sunday to watch our first game of the season! You can also finalise your Membership and enjoy a delicious burger thanks to The Hungry Traveller! ? ⚽️
Details ℹ️ https://t.co/GvDBrbY48A pic.twitter.com/cpTVPI8wPW
— Central Coast Mariners (@CCMariners) October 16, 2018
