He was also amember 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 signs with A-League club Auckland FC. 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.
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 Newstalk ZB’s digital team and at Waiheke’s Gulf News, covering sport and events.
