Known to many as being one of the most talented goalkeepers to grace the National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s competition, has come the news that Mt Druitt Town Rangers custodian Carlos Saliadarre has said farewell to the league and the state, relocating to the Gold Coast.
The 32-year-old was not only a quality keeper but a decent individual as well which made him one of the most likeable characters in the NPL NSW Men’s competition.
It was a chance to start a new life at the Gold Coast joining his family along with a new job opportunity that was simply too good to refuse that prompted the move away from NSW.
“The decision to leave wasn’t easy,” Saliadarre stated to Football NSW.
“However soaring house prices in Sydney put us in a position to make the most of the situation to sell and start something brand new on the Gold Coast.
“I’ve been very fortunate that I’ve had both work and football to make a good living over a decade in Sydney which gave my family the opportunity to make the move with less stress.
“My entire family is up at the Gold Coast and have been for the last six years, so I also wanted my kids to be closer to them too.
“I will always love Western Sydney but we this was an opportunity that we could not pass up. The kids love the beach and now they’ll be ten minutes away, the quality of life will also suit all our lifestyles.
“I work in warehousing (James Lane/Sleeping Giant) and initially came up to the Gold Coast just to work as a supervisor while continuing to play with the Rangers. However due to recent departures in the business, an opportunity presented to manage the site and further my career. So the travel to and from Sydney every week was no longer an option.”
What will be the NPL NSW Men’s loss will be NPL Queensland’s gain as Saliadarre will continue his footballing career as a swarm of clubs have contacted the ex-Rangers number one for a gig in 2022.
“I will absolutely be continuing my footballing career.
“I still have a lot to give and with two Covid interrupted years, I’m looking forward to the 2022 season.
“I’m 32 and feel like I’ve been playing for an eternity but still feel fresh, love the game and was playing well again this season.
“There’s no reason for me not to continue, I love this game and will announce where I will be playing soon.”
Saliadarre played a pivotal role in the success of the Mt Druitt Town Rangers’ push towards promotion into NSW’s top-flight after making the move from the Blacktown Spartans five years ago.
Those five years paved way to many fond memories the shotstopper will never forget which included Goalkeeper of the Year awards, Team of the Year plaudits as well as magical moments which Saliadarre will always remember.
“I had many unforgettable moments with the club that will long live in my memory as a footballer that’s for sure.
“Putting one hand on promotion away to the Central Coast Mariners where we were down 1-0 to come back and win comfortably was a beautiful moment. To have shared that feeling with all the club’s SAP and Youth players that turned up to support us was simply amazing. The icing on the cake that year was when we secured promotion at Popondetta Park on the final day against the Wanderers and the celebrations that unfolded afterwards was quite simply a priceless moment.
“We were lucky to have made a few FFA Cup Round of 32 campaigns but the first one for the club stands out. An away trip playing against the Wollongong Wolves and securing a spot, a first in the club’s history, was the best.
“I also can’t go past finally getting one over our rivals Blacktown City away which was sweet.
“Finally, and for me the most important memory of all, watching my son’s first match is something I will never forget.”
Mt Druitt Town Rangers, led by coach Stewart Montgomery, have developed a family like environment and it is that on top of many other special things Saliadarre will miss most about the ever evolving NPL NSW club.
“I will miss everyone at the club.
“The love and support they have given me from day one has been unreal. I was truly blessed with my time there.
“From the SAP kids, youth players, ladies in the canteen, Willy the groundsman, Stama and Stew, especially the group of boys we had this year, I can go on.
“I have a lot of love for these lads and wish them nothing but the best for the 2022 season.
“I will be following them as a fan now and hope they continue to establish Mt Druitt as a top tier NPL NSW Men’s side.
“I may no longer be there in body, but my heart and spirit will always defend Mt Druitt’s colours and goal.”
Safe to say the NPL NSW Men’s community will miss you Carlos, good luck with your future endeavours as we too will follow your progress.
