Sunday September 2, 2018
Mark Armstrong
Eight-time Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt has kicked off a new career - playing football with Australia's Central Coast Mariners. The 32-year-old Jamaican sprinter was greeted by a crowd of nearly 10,000 people in Gosford, north of Sydney.
Enjoyed getting some playing time tonight with the Central Coast Mariners FC. Thanks to all the fans who came out to support. #CCMFC #dontthinklimits #workinprogress pic.twitter.com/NM5pRMVLlf
— Usain St. Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) August 31, 2018
"I was a little bit nervous, but as soon as I got on the field, I think the nerves kind of went. I wish I had more touches, but I'm not fit yet, but, I just got to put in the work, get up to speed and I'm looking forward to a great season."
Often hailed as the greatest sprinter of all time, Bolt is hoping to win a professional contract with the Mariners.
His presence has already generated huge publicity for the struggling team, who finished bottom of the 10-team A-league last season.