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Highly regarded centre back Dan Hall has joined Auckland FC as their latest signing for their inaugural A-League season.

Hall, 25, arrives in Auckland from the Central Coast Mariners where he played a crucial role in the club’s treble-winning campaign last season.

He was also a member of the 2022/23 A-League winning Mariners side, so brings championship experience to the expansion club.

The Australian-born Fijian representative made his senior club debut for Western Pride in 2017. In November 2020, Central Coast Mariners signed Hall to a senior contract after he previously captained the Mariners academy.

Head coach Steve Corica expressed his excitement about the acquisition, noting Hall’s outstanding skills and leadership qualities.

“There were quite a few clubs vying for Dan’s signature. He’s an outstanding player, but he really brought into what we’re aiming to achieve here and the future pathways the club can offer thanks to Bill Foley’s multi-club network,” he said.

“He’s going to slot right into that defence. He’s got a lot of experience and won a few trophies, so will likely act as a bit of a leader for some of the other lads at the club, particularly the younger scholarship players.

“We’re just delighted to have him here and can’t wait to see him on the pitch in the black and blue colours of Auckland FC.”

Dan Hall against the Phoenix last season. Photo / Photosport

Hall made 90 appearances for the Mariners and played every minute of the three-match A-League Men’s finals series last season.

Speaking at his unveiling, Hall expressed his eagerness to join Auckland FC and be part of their debut season.

“Auckland FC has a huge amount to offer; the pathways, the potential, and the chance to be part of a debut season. It’s too good to turn down to be honest. I’m excited to get my kit on, meet my new teammates and see what’s going on and what the city is all about,” he said.

“I’m grateful to the team at Central Coast, they are a great club and I’ve been there my whole career. But it was time for a change, to test myself somewhere new and take the next step.”

The club’s chief executive, Nick Becker, described Hall’s arrival as a significant step forward and expressed his excitement about the upcoming pre-season.

Auckland FC is majority-owned by American Bill Foley and has Ali Williams and Anna Mowbray as local co-owners. The team will play their home games at Mt Smart’s Go Media Stadium.

The 2024/25 A-League season is set to kick off in October.

Will Toogood is an online sports editor for the NZ Herald. He has previously worked for ��һ�ǿ�����talk ZB’s digital team and at Waiheke’s Gulf ��һ�ǿ�����, covering sport and events.