The Central Coast Mariners have proven a smash hit at a coaching clinic for over 100 kids at the University of Canberra today.
The players put the group of predominantly primary school aged children through their paces for over two hours before an autograph session, leaving the Belconnen North and Belconnen South players with an experience they-ll never forget.
“They-re running around and kicking each other, its always a bit of fun, but no, it-s good to get around and do a few things for the kids, to hopefully get them pointing in the right direction for when they get older,” said Mariners striker Nik Mrdja.
The foundation squad member spent a brief spell in the nation-s capital with the Canberra Cosmos in the now defunct National Soccer League, and Mrdja says it-s always nice to renew old acquaintances.
“It-s good to be back and see the place, but most importantly of all, hopefully we can get a few good runs down here and benefit from it.”
Two weeks into a short five-week pre-season program, the signs are good for a fully fit Mrdja to be unleashed against Melbourne Victory in the opening match of the Hyundai A-League 2009/10 season at Etihad Stadium on Thursday, 6 August.
“The body feels fine now, obviously it-s now about getting some kilometres under my belt, the more I can get the better. That will come, and I-ve just got to slowly get there, and make sure that the body does get through it.
“It-s a good run around, but more so we came here to improve our fitness, and to get some more k-s under our belts, and at the same time work out how we-re going to play, and hopefully progress from there, and get off to a good start on August 6 against Melbourne,” said Mrdja.
The Mariners are next in action against a Capital Football select XI tomorrow, Sunday 12 July, at the AIS Athletics track, kick off is at 1pm. Tickets for this match will be available at the gate.
Mariners memberships for the Hyundai A-League 2009/10 season are available online at www.ccmariners.com.au
