When I joined the Mariners, I was repeatedly told that hosting a home Grand Final at Industree Group Stadium was impossible.
Like many of our dedicated members and partners, I believed this to be true. However, we discovered that with determination and effort, anything is possible. Thanks must go to our executive team who have worked closely with stadium management and the A-Leagues (APL) to achieve the unbelievable outcome. We now have the privilege of witnessing something that once seemed like an impossible dream.
This weekend, the Central Coast will be in the spotlight as we host the first-ever home Grand Final at the beautiful Industree Group Stadium in Gosford. Whether you are attending the game or watching from the Central Coast Council Live Site in Leagues Club Park, we hope you share in the excitement. As a club, we pride ourselves on being deeply connected to our community, and we are thrilled to host a Grand Final on our home soil. Since getting past a very competitive Sydney FC last Saturday evening, our team has been working tirelessly to assist our members and fans, addressing questions and issues long into the evening.
It’s important for me to clarify that we, as a club, do not control ticket pricing or seating allocation for all finals football, nor do we gain financial benefit from what will be a sold-out stadium. All aspects connected to the finals series are managed by the APL, and this has always been the case. We sincerely apologise for any confusion or inconvenience this may cause fans, members, and partners.Â
The APL’s ticket pricing strategy aims to gain some financial return given the significant financial challenges they face. These type of events play a fundamental role in the financial recovery of the APL. Hosting a Grand Final is not just a milestone for us but a vital part of supporting the broader league’s stability and growth.
Despite these challenges, a sell out Grand Final, along with the newly announced live site in Gosford, is an incredible achievement for the Mariners family and the broader Central Coast community. It is an opportunity to showcase the dedication and passion for football in our region. We hope you have enjoyed the journey and our success this season and we sincerely thank you in advance for your support, from wherever you are this Saturday, as we attempt to secure the ‘treble’ against a very dangerous and well coached Melbourne outfit. Go the Mariners.
