Auckland FC is thrilled to announce that six rising stars have secured their maiden professional contracts with the club, all joining the Black Knights on scholarship deals.
Please join in welcoming Luis Toomey, Liam Gillion, Finn Mckenlay, Adama Coulibaly, Oliver Middleton and Jonty Bidois to the club.
These six new arrivals will be the first of many up-and-coming talents who will be a part of the Auckland FC scholarship pathway, marking an exciting new chapter for aspiring footballers in our region.
This initiative underpins Auckland FC’s commitment to providing the next generation of local footballers with a pathway to achieve their professional dreams.
“These new appointments just reinforce our commitment to Auckland and football in New Zealand”, said Head Coach, Steve Corica.
“Developing local players is at the core of what we do, and these early announcements reflect that”
“What we’re building here is momentum and today is another significant milestone for the club.”
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Overview of Each Player
Luis Toomey
Age: 22
Position: Attacking Midfileder
Last Club: Eastern Suburbs AFC
Home town: Napier
“Playing for Auckland FC will mean the world to me, being able to play professional football after pursuing that dream for so long. IT will provide an opportunity for me to grow as a player.”
Luis Toomey
Liam Gillion
Age: 21
Position: Winger
Last Club: Auckland City FC
Home town: Auckland
“It is a privilege to play for the city I have grown up in and to compete at a professional level. I am excited to learn and grow from the experienced players around me.”
Liam Gillion
Finn McKenlay
Age: 18
Position: Midfielder
Last Club: Eastern Suburbs AFC
Home town: Auckland
“Playing for Auckland FC is a huge honour and privilege for me. It gives me the opportunity to represent the city I have grown up in and where I learnt to play football. Being involved at the start of the club’s journey is a proud moment for me and an opportunity I am excited for.”
Finn McKenlay
Adama Coulibaly
Age: 19
Position: Midfielder/Defender
Last Club: Western Springs, AFC
Home town: Auckland
“This is a game changer, getting my first professional football contract has aligned to bringing my dream to reality. This is a big opportunitiy in my football journey. I am privileged to be a member of the team and represent my hometown Auckland.”
Adama Coulibaly
Oliver Middleton
Age: 18
Position: Midfielder
Last Club: Auckland United, FC
Home town: Auckland
“Signing with Auckland FC is a exciting step in my football career. This opportunity to play at a professional level is a dream come true, and I’m eager to contribute to the team’s success.”
Oliver Middleton
Jonty Bidois
Age: 19
Position: Forward
Last Club: Tauranga City AFC
Home town: Tauranga
“Joining Auckland FC is a huge privilege and it’s super exciting to be a part of a new team. It means I get to develop professionally and learn from the coaching staff and the more experienced players in the squad.”
Jonty Bidois