Brooke Neary will spend a second season in the Wellington Phoenix women’s first team environment.
The Phoenix academy goalkeeper has signed another youth development agreement with the club for the 2025-26 Ninja A-League.
Neary, 17, was part of the first team squad for the 2024-25 season after starting two of New Zealand’s matches at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic.
She was an unused substitute for a number of A-League matches before making her senior debut in the final game of the season when she replaced first-choice ‘keeper Carolina Vilão in the 85th minute.
“I’m beyond grateful for this opportunity,” Neary said. “I’ve developed significantly over the past season and am proud to be back with the Nix.
“I greatly value the coaching staff’s guidance and support, and I appreciate the challenge and the chance to continue learning from everyone around me.
“I’m really looking forward to the season ahead and the opportunity to work with Vic Esson. She’s an incredible person with extensive international experience, and training alongside her is a valuable chance to learn from her approach and leadership.
“I hope to take on as much as I can from her support and continue challenging myself every day.”
Neary played for the Phoenix women’s reserves during the A-League off-season and was a key member of the team that won through to the final of the Kate Sheppard Cup.
Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman is excited about Neary’s potential.
“Given that Brooke only started playing in goal two years ago I’m amazed at what she can do right now and we’re hoping to untap her potential in our environment,” Priestman said.
“I’ve already seen big growth over a short space of time and the club is really excited about developing her further.”
Brooke Neary will continue to wear the no. 13 shirt for the Wellington Phoenix during the 2025-26 Ninja A-League.
