One of ten foundation A-League squad members remaining on the Central Coast, Wilkinson has been a major contributor to all that the Mariners have achieved in their short history.

Wilkinson’s start against Wellington Phoenix at Westpac Stadium last Friday was his 99th in yellow and navy – a tally that has been accumulated through 77 A-League appearances, 19 in the Pre-Season Cup and a further three in May 2005’s Club World Championship qualifying series.

Having inked a new two-year deal with the Mariners that will keep the former youth international and fringe Qantas Socceroo on the Central Coast until at least 2011, Wilkinson will continue to be at the heart of all that the Mariners achieve in the future, not least as part of their maiden AFC Champions League campaign.

Mariners Executive Chairman Lyall Gorman said: "We’re honoured to have been represented by such an exceptional individual as Alex, a player that has always showcased total commitment to the Mariners cause and one that has exhibited great pride in wearing the Mariners crest.

"As captain, he has been integral to all of our recent successes and instrumental in establishing the team and club culture that has become so synonymous with the Mariners and with the Central Coast and that, indeed, will ultimately be one of many enduring marks that Alex will have made in Mariners colours.

"I’m sure all of our Members and supporters will join me in congratulating Alex for this outstanding achievement, one that will live on throughout the history of our club and one that has been achieved by a truly deserving individual."

Wilkinson will be presented with a framed jersey to commemorate his milestone achievement in front of the Bluetongue Stadium gallery ahead of the Mariners’ New Year’s Eve clash against the Perth Glory at Bluetongue Stadium.

The skipper said: "It’s a great honour to be so close to making my 100the appearance and it’s been a priviledge to have been such a big part of this club since the very beginning.

"We’ve achieved so much on and off the field and to have done this with the support of the coaching staff, administration and players here at the Mariners has been really memorable and something that all of us can reflect on with a great deal of pride.

"Football isn’t about achieving personal milestones and as flattering as this achievement is, the main objective for the short term is a win against the Jets on Boxing Day and once we achieve that, I can truly enjoy what will be a special moment."