Mariners Captain Hutchinson calling it a day

Central Coast Mariners skipper John Hutchinson - who is on the verge of becoming the all-time appearance record holder in the A-League - will retire at the end of the 2014-2015 season.

A-League Rd 16 - Central Coast v Sydney

John Hutchinson has been a part of Central Coast Mariners since day one (Getty)

The 35-year-old Mariners foundation player, who's appeared more than 250 times for the club - including 217 in the A-League - made the announcement on Thursday.

He captained the club to its maiden A-League championship in 2012-2013.

"All good things must come to an end, and I can't see myself ever playing for any other club in the A-League," Hutchinson said.

"I'm proud of what I've achieved on the Central Coast and to be able to live and play football in such a great area has been a real joy.

"I've had a wonderful chance to meet some fantastic people here and that's the main thing that I'll take away from all of it.

"We've won things but it's more the mateship from the game and I've got friends for life."
The Mariners are keen to keep Hutchinson involved in some off-field capacity once his playing days are over.

"I'm currently in discussions with the club to see if there will be a future role for me, I am a fully qualified B licence coach and will be taking my A licence in the near future," Hutchinson said.
While the Mariners will miss Hutchinson's leadership on the field, Mariners coach Phil Moss said he would endeavoure to assist the veteran in his transition to a post-playing career.

"Hutch is an important member of our squad in the dressing room, on the training pitch and in the community," Moss said.

"He's a fantastic captain, a great leader and a rock solid midfielder who has a lot more quality than what people give him credit for.

"He's flagged his interest in pursuing a coaching career and I think that's fantastic."

The Mariners' next game is at home against Adelaide United on Saturday 7 February.


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2 min read
Published 29 January 2015 4:43pm
Updated 29 January 2015 4:46pm

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