Central Coast Mariners would like to wish long-serving Team Manager, Darren ‘Dobbo’ Dobson all the best, as he moves on to a new opportunity in his career.
Dobbo has been an integral member of the football department for over seven years, with his hard work, dedication and organisation contributing hugely to our on-field and off-field success in recent years.
His work has been formally recognised by the club previously, as he was the recipient of the Chairman’s Award in 2021/22 and also presented with his Long Service award at our 2023/24 Mariners Medal Dinner.
In total, Dobbo has worked over 260 games for the club, including 190 A-League fixtures. He was a part of one Premiership, one AFC Cup and two Championship wins, including the historic 2023/24 treble-winning season.
His hard work, reliability and personable nature made him a popular figure amongst players and colleagues, as he carried out an extremely demanding role always with a positive attitude and a smile on his face, embodying the true Mariners spirit.
Dobbo leaves with the unique record of being the only non-playing member of staff in Mariners history to win ‘Player of the Match’, after his quick-thinking saved the day and ensured we still got to Brisbane for an A-League fixture in 2023, despite transport cancellations.
His brilliant work and quick thinking got our squad to Brisbane for Friday's game despite plane cancellations and delays ✈️
— Central Coast Mariners (@CCMariners) February 12, 2023
Congratulations to our Team Manager Darren 'Dobbo' Dobson on being awarded the @maccas fan's man of the match! 👏#CCMFC #WontBackDown #OurParadise pic.twitter.com/N1BbFi9XAs
Head Coach Mark Jackson and Sporting Director Matt Simon, were both keen to comment on Dobbo’s departure, formally recognising his hard work and the impact he has had on the Mariners.
“I’d like to place on record my sincere thanks and appreciation for what Dobbo has not only done for the club, but for myself personally.” Jacko said.
“What a person like Dobbo brings to the team doesn’t always get recognised, but when you speak about being a good teammate, Dobbo embodies that in everything he does.
“His professionalism and attention to detail was a massive part of the team and he will be sincerely missed.”
Simon, who has known Dobson since his playing days, to now working with him as Sporting Director, also had nothing but good things to say about his departing colleague:
“It’s been an absolute honour to work with Darren over the past seven-and-a-half years. The dedication and professionalism he brought to every role were nothing short of extraordinary.” Simon said.
“No challenge was ever too big. He met adversity with grace, determination, and an unwavering commitment to the team.
“When our club achieved its greatest feat — the treble — it was Darren’s tireless effort, leadership, and ability to remain steadfast through delays, travel, and obstacles that helped make it possible. He never complained, only rolled up his sleeves and got the job done.”
“Thank you, Darren, for everything you’ve done. Your work ethic, positive attitude, and leadership have left an indelible mark. I wish you nothing but the very best for whatever comes next.”
“I am so grateful for the opportunities, challenges and memories I have made at the Mariners. It has been an honour to be a part of so many key moments.” Dobbo said.
“Thank you to all colleagues and players that I have worked with past and present who have proven that with hard work and a great team culture, anything is possible.”
“I will always cherish my time at this truly special club, and with everyone at the Mariners nothing but success in the future,” he added.
