The 41-year-old member of the Australian Coaching Council, who holds an AFC ‘B’ Licence and is currently completing his AFC ‘A’ Licence, is eager to contribute to the Mariners.

“I am absolutely delighted about my forthcoming duties with the Central Coast Mariners in the Westfield W-League," said Roche.

“It is important that we assemble a competitive squad, which will in turn generate bigger crowds and public interest as the competition evolves.”

Currently heading the football program at Knox Grammar School in Wahroonga, Roche has also held a position as NSW Country Women’s state coach, having taken a number of its teams to various National Championships over the past few years.

Roche believes that his appointment as the Mariners’ Westfield W-League coach has pushed his personal achievements to new heights, as he continues to develop his coaching career at an elite level.

“It’s the biggest step you could possibly take as a coach – being part of Australia’s elite women’s competition," said Roche.

“It’s all about building a solid foundation with the squad and getting the best out of the team in what will be an exciting year for the women’s game.”

Australia's new elite domestic competition for women kicks off in late October.