Olympic Coach Returns: NZ Women's Team Welcomes Priestman After Ban
Olympic gold-winning coach Bev Priestman makes a progressive return to football as Wellington Phoenix's new head coach, marking a significant step forward for women's professional sports in New Zealand.
Bev Priestman, Olympic gold-winning coach, appointed as Wellington Phoenix women's team head coach
In a significant development for women's football in New Zealand, Olympic gold-winning coach Bev Priestman has been appointed as head coach of Wellington Phoenix, marking her return to professional football after serving a one-year suspension.
A Progressive Return to Football
The appointment represents a remarkable turnaround for Priestman, whose career was temporarily halted following a drone spying incident at the Paris Olympics. Despite the controversy, Wellington Phoenix has demonstrated its commitment to progressive leadership by offering Priestman a two-year contract to lead New Zealand's only professional women's team.
"We're really pleased to be able to welcome Bev back to football," stated Phoenix chairman Rob Morrison, emphasizing the club's forward-thinking approach to rehabilitation and second chances.
Track Record of Excellence
Priestman's impressive credentials include guiding Canada to Olympic gold in Tokyo and extensive experience across four Women's World Cups, three Olympic Games, and three FIFA youth World Cups. Her previous connection to New Zealand's sporting landscape includes roles in coaching development and as New Zealand Football's development director.
Ambitious Vision for Wellington Phoenix
The appointment aligns with New Zealand's progressive stance on professional development and second chances. Priestman has already set ambitious goals for the team, which competes in Australia's A-League Women competition.
"There'll be a hunger and a desire there because we know we want to achieve a first for this club and to do that is going to take something special," Priestman stated, outlining her vision for the team's future.
Industry Support and Future Prospects
Stephen Conroy, chairman of Australian Professional Leagues, praised the appointment as a "fantastic endorsement" for the competition, highlighting Priestman's world-class expertise and Olympic championship experience as valuable assets for developing talent in the region.
Ella Thompson
Ella Thompson is a Wellington-based journalist covering politics, climate policy, and digital freedoms in the Pacific. With a background in law and international relations, she brings sharp analysis and a passion for civic accountability.