Former Socceroo and minder to David Beckham, Andy Bernal, was sitting at home contemplating what to do next when a phone call from a stranger prompted his next football move. It was Richard Peil, Co-Founder of Anytime Fitness, wanting Bernals thoughts on moving into the football business after reading Andys best-selling autobiography, Riding Shotgun. From there, sprung a friendship which led to Peil buying into the A-Leagues Central Coast Mariners. With limited resources as the A-Leagues smallest club and smallest population, the pair went about building a club, appointing a coach, and assembling resources, that would see Central Coast Mariners win the 2023 A-League championship under the direction of new coach, Nick Montgomery. With an official title of Director of Athletic Development, and an unofficial one of Vibe Manager, Bernal was integral to the camaraderie and teamwork that characterised the Central Coast Mariners successful season.This is the first book written by an A-League insider about the day-to-day issues faced by a club within a 30-week season.
One of the key pioneers for Australian footballers abroad, Andy Bernal is the son of Spanish migrants. Andy’s love of football, although second to rugby league as a child, saw him emerge from the ACT to forge a career abroad, becoming a professional in both Spain and England. In between times, Andy had a spell back home, winning a National Championship with Sydney Olympic FC and gaining Socceroos recognition. He became an integral part of one of the greatest teams in the history of Reading FC, being considered by many supporters as one of their greatest ever talents. After his retirement, Andy became a football agent and was entrusted to be Manager in Spain to superstar David Beckham following his move to Real Madrid from Manchester United. His autobiography, Riding Shotgun - the Autobiography of the Original Wizard of Oz was published in 2021. Andy is now Director of Atheltic Development at Central Coast Mariners Football Club. He is married to Jaynie Wignall, and is the proud grandfather of Zoe.
* Bernals autobiography Riding Shotgun - the Autobiography of the Original Wizard of Oz (2021) is a best-seller available in paperback, e-book, and audiobook.
* This short memoir is fully supported by Central Coast Mariners club.
* Bernal is available for appearances, book signings, and interviews.
Publicity:
The book will be launched at the Central Coast Mariners launch event for the 2023-24 season, and will be heavily promoted through their membership and corporate supporters. Direct marketing with football clubs. Media relations via Wattersons PR.
