Central Coast Mariners are pleased to announce that New Zealand international left back James McGarry has signed a two-year extension with the club, keeping him on the Central Coast until at least the end of the 2024/25 season.
The defender joined the Mariners in the recent transfer window, coming to the club after a short stint with the Newcastle Jets.
Originally from the Phoenix Academy, the left back joined Eredivisie side Willem II, before returning to the New Zealand outfit during the Covid-19 Pandemic. He made a further 38 games for the Phoenix, along with 10 matches for the Jets.
The experienced left back has hit the ground running since signing with the Mariners, playing four games for the club so far this season. His debut for the side coming just two days after signing for the club against Brisbane Roar, starting at left back in every game since.
His outstanding performances so far have demonstrated his natural ability in both attack and defence, already scoring once. This goal coming against former club Wellington in his first match at Industree Group Stadium, a volley to hand us an early lead.
McGarry now a Mariner until the end of the 2024/25 season, thrilled to have secured a long-term deal with the club.
“I am really excited, obviously it was what I wanted to do when I moved to the Central Coast Mariners and I am pleased to be extending my stay with the club,” he said.
“Monty has played a big role in me wanting to stay, from the first day that I came here he has been giving me advice, doing video sessions and trying to get me up to speed as quickly as possible. The whole staff have been fantastic, and I have really enjoyed my time so far.”
Mariners head coach Nick Montgomery is delighted to have secured the services of the defender for a further two seasons.
“It was important that when we signed James until the end of this season that he came and fitted the culture and the way that we want to play. Also, for him to feel comfortable that the Mariners is the club for him,” Montgomery said.
“That was evident very early on that it was the perfect match. We are delighted that James has extended his contract and look forward to seeing his progression over the coming seasons.”
