Luke Wilkshire appointed Central Coast Mariners Head of Youth Development

National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s side Wollongong Wolves have announced the departure of their head coach former Socceroo Luke Wilkshire who has accepted a role with the Central Coast Mariners for the next two A-League seasons kicking off next year.

Wilkshire will remain head coach of the Wolves for the duration of the 2022 NPL NSW Men’s season before commencing his new role with the Mariners.

“Becoming a coach and a manager wasn’t something I aspired to do,” Wilkshire said.

“However, the Wolves gave me an opportunity and it’s something I will always be grateful for.

“Tory Lavalle, and everyone of influence at the club have been fantastic. The club and its people will always be special to me.

“I hope to come back one day when the club is in the A-League.

“But at this moment this opportunity with the Mariners is exciting and one I need at this stage of my career.”

Following an illustrious career in Europe, 80 games for the Socceroos and two World Cups, Wilkshire came home to the Illawarra in 2018.

Since then, his influence on the Wolves and the game generally in the South Coast region has been significant.

Wilkshire has been heavily involved in all aspects of the club and led the Wolves to the 2019 NPL NSW Men’s Premiership, the National NPL Championship, the 2020 Finals Series and into the last 16 of the Australia Cup in 2021.

Wilkshire was also heavily involved in the club’s bid for an A-League licence.

Over the past 4 years, Wilkshire and his family have contributed significantly to the club and the sport in general.

“Luke’s professionalism and positive influence on many people has been second to none,” said Wolves Club chairman Tory Lavalle.

“He has been a leader in every sense of the word.

“We are sad to lose him, but this is a great opportunity for Luke and we are proud to see him move forward. The Mariners will benefit from his influence.”