Marine FC can confirm that striker Bobby Grant is to retire from football following our final game of the season at home to South Shields this Saturday.
Bobby has had an incredible career spanning over 500 professional games, and he has been an important figure both on and off the pitch since joining Marine last season.
Bobby’s performances and leadership last season were key to helping us gain our first-ever promotion from the Northern Premier League.
His return to the side from injury this year was no coincidence with the upturn in the team’s form which saw us secure Vanarama National League North safety in our first ever campaign in the division.
Bobby has been an excellent servant to the club during his time at the Marine Travel Arena and hangs up his boots with our very best wishes.
On his decision, Bobby said: “The decision to retire has not been an easy one but after sitting down with my family I believe now is the time to stop playing and focus on the next chapter of my career.
“Making my debut at 16 in the Football League, managing to play in the EFL League Two, League One and Championship, to playing in some proper FA Cup ties all the dreams I had as a young kid came true, and I am extremely proud of this.
“The final chapter, Marine, and arguably the most enjoyable time of my career from the minute I joined the club, the board, manager, players and most importantly fans welcomed me with open arms and the journey we went on was incredible. That promotion at Macclesfield infront of 1300 of our supporters will live with me forever. It has been an absolute pleasure to represent Marine Football Club.
Thank you
Bobby Grant.“
Manager Neil Young said: “I fully understand Bobby’s reasons for making the decision he has.
“Since we brought him in just over 12 months ago, his influence both on and off the pitch has been incredible.
“An absolute favourite with the fans, always having time for people and in particular our younger supporters, an absolute character in the dressing room but I think undoubtedly his biggest influence has been on the pitch itself.
“He was a major factor in our upturn in form last season and ultimately our promotion. This season I know it’s been tough for him being injured but he was determined to get back to help the team, and it’s no coincidence that our upturn in form was when he was back available for selection again and firmly back amongst the squad.
“I started managing in an era full of characters and players who put serious demands on one another and took each other to task, Bobby had all that character and very high standards.
“I personally thank him for helping me along with the team achieve what we have over his time he and wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”
