Usain Bolt not a gimmick, Mariners chief claims

Central Coast Mariners chief executive Shaun Mielekamp has hit back at critics of Usain Bolt’s attempts to earn a contract with the club.

RAY GATT

Usain Bolt of FIFA 98 plays during the Legends Game match between France 98 and FIFA 98 at U Arena in June in France. Picture: Getty Images

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11:40AMAugust 08, 2018

Central Coast Mariners chief executive Shaun Mielekamp has hit back at critics who have suggested Usain Bolt’s attempts to earn a contract with the club is nothing but a publicity stunt.

Bolt will arrive in Australia on August 18 in an attempt to secure a contract with the Mariners that could see him playing in the A-League this season.

But the project has been branded a gimmick and a publicity stunt with severe doubts cast over the eight-time Olympic gold medallists’ ability to play at this level.

Bolt will be given as much time as needed to prove himself, whether it takes three weeks, two months or longer. But he has not been guaranteed a contract.

Mielekamp said he is aware of the criticism but believes the Bolt situation will have “many uplifts” for the club.

“Of course, I am aware of what is being said out there, but this is why we are taking things one step at a time and going through a process for him to train and develop,” Mielekamp said.

“I say to them, we are a small club and that you know we need to grow and if this is one of the opportunities for the Central Coast Mariners to significantly grow for the long term then this is an opportunity nobody can deny us.

“For us, that long term affect is what we have to be mindful of. How can we use this to improve the club for the long term.”

Mielekamp, who spoke to Bolt on Tuesday night, said the fastest man in the world is determined to try and prove himself.

“Having Usain Bolt come to the club to train and hopefully develop into a professional football player is perfectly aligned to the club’s philosophy,” he said.

“It is important, though, that we don’t get too caught up in the hype and possibilities. But, the reality is Usain has placed his faith in the Central Coast Mariners to accelerate his football journey.

“We will give him every help for him to achieve that.

“He has the desire, the passion and the determination.”