Newcastle Jets have received a huge boost just over two weeks out from the start of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 Season with two hometown heroes re-signing with the club.
Skipper Nigel Boogaard and the versatile Jason Hoffman have both penned one-year extensions to keep them in the Hunter until the end of the 2019/20 campaign.
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“Following the Grand Final, I thought it was important that we reward two players who had really impressed me throughout the year and particularly during the Final Series,” Jets boss Ernie Merrick said.
“The way Nigel overcame his knee injury to then be one of our best players in the finals was an absolute credit to him – he’s a tremendous leader.
“Jason has been equally exceptional, his fitness, drive and adaptability to play a number of positions has been invaluable.
“Both (Nigel and Jason) are an important presence both on and off the pitch and to be able to have these two local boys at the club until the end of 2019/20 is really pleasing.”
We secure two important signatures, as Boogaard and Hoffman extend until the end of the Hyundai A-League 2019/20 season!
📰 https://t.co/zTcYwzCKxm pic.twitter.com/jsQdEzvXhY— NEWCASTLE JETS FC ✈️ (@NewcastleJetsFC) October 1, 2018
Boogaard has flourished under Merrick in the centre of defence and will now lead his hometown cub for another two seasons.
“To have been a part of everything that’s happened at the club over the last 18 months – to now be here for another two seasons – I couldn’t be happier,” Boogaard said.
“We’ve got a really close-knit group and a football community that’s right behind us. This is my hometown, I’ve started a family here, it’s great to be a part of this community and represent Newcastle on a national stage.
“To lead this club and these players over the last couple of seasons has been an amazing experience for me, I can’t wait to get started again in a few weeks’ time.”
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Hoffman added: “To now be extended a further season is something I’m really happy about, my family and I love living in Newcastle and I love playing for my hometown club.
“The brand of football we’re playing is one that I really enjoy and things are going well right around the club, to have my future secure before the start of this season is great for me and my family.”