Mackenzie Barry has unfinished business at the Wellington Phoenix.
The combative centre back has re-signed with the Phoenix for the 2025-26 Ninja A-League, extending her stay at the club to a fifth season.
Barry, 24, has been a mainstay at the back since the women’s first game in December 2021 and is now the team’s most capped player with 71 appearances for the Nix.
“I’ve really enjoyed my past four years with the club,” she said. “I love playing in New Zealand, I love being near my family and the fans are amazing, of course. The team’s grown and improved so much.
“The first two years at the Phoenix were very much a learning curve for me as they were my first couple of years in professional football.
“The last two years we just fell short of the finals unfortunately, but I really want us to get into the top six.
“I’m committed to getting us into the finals.”
The 20-cap Football Fern has followed Wellingtonian Emma Main in recommitting to the Nix, while former Dutch international Tessel Middag, Dominican Republic captain Lucía León, American defender Ellie Walker and Football Ferns goalkeeper Victoria Esson have also signed on for the 2025-26 season.
She is convinced the Phoenix are committed to making the women’s programme a success.
“We’ve made some big signings and so early in the off-season which is exciting. They’re great quality players and they’ll lift the standards even more.
“The signings have definitely influenced my decision to re-sign.
“The Phoenix are really serious about the women’s team. We have all the support, fantastic facilities and now some great additions.”
Barry also believes the Phoenix can help her become a more regular member of the national side.
“The Phoenix have a good set-up and relationship with the Ferns so it’s a good environment to be in to be pushing and getting into the national team.
“I’d love to get more gametime as a centre back, but I’m still young and I’m working towards it.
“Hopefully this season I will get more of an opportunity.”
Interim Phoenix head coach Amy Shepherd is delighted to be able to confirm Barry’s contract extension.
“As part of our ongoing commitment to building a strong and competitive squad, securing top Kiwi talent remains a key strategic focus for the club,” Shepherd said.
“Mackenzie has consistently demonstrated leadership and composure in defence, and her extensive experience in the A-League women’s competition will be instrumental in mentoring and integrating new talent into the squad.
“Her professionalism, relentless work ethic, and commitment to excellence embody the values we expect of every player who wears the Nix jersey.
“We are proud to support her continued journey with the Football Ferns as she works towards the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.”
Mackenzie Barry is the 15th player confirmed in the Wellington Phoenix women’s squad for the 2025-26 A-League, with further signings and re-signings to follow in the coming weeks.
