Emma Main has become the first women’s player to commit to the Wellington Phoenix through until the end of the 2026-27 Ninja A-League.
The versatile forward, affectionately known as the Main Train, has signed a two-year contract extension with the Phoenix.
Main, 25, has been a key member of the Nix squad for the past two seasons and is the women’s joint second highest goal scorer in the team’s four-year history.
She has unfinished business at her hometown club.
“It definitely was an easy decision for me to re-sign,” Main said. “Obviously, Wellington’s my home and playing in front of my friends and family is something I never take for granted.
“I also really cherish the club’s belief in me over the past two seasons and having the confidence to sign me for another two seasons.
“It’s a great opportunity for me. Over the previous two seasons I’ve grown a lot in terms of understanding how to handle the pressure and finding consistency, whether that’s coming off the bench or being in the starting team.
“I think that’s really set me up well and I’m hoping the next two years is when I really thrive, score a lot of goals and become a really integral part of this team.”
Main found the back of the net three times during the 2024-25 campaign to take her club tally to eight but she wants to be more clinical and consistent this season.
“Last season I definitely didn’t score as many goals as I would have liked to and I really want to build on that and become one of those key goal scorers for the Nix.
“But I also want to create more chances, whether that’s shooting more or providing the final pass for a goalscoring opportunity.
“I’d like to be better there and be a bit more consistent to help the team win big games.”
News of her contract extension follows the Phoenix signing former Dutch international Tessel Middag, Dominican Republic captain Lucía León, American defender Ellie Walker and Football Ferns goalkeeper Victoria Esson for the 2025-26 season.
“It’s a really exciting time for the women’s squad,” Main said. “There are a few signings yet to be announced too, which I know the fans will be excited about, but also the signings that have been announced are really exciting.
“They’ll bring fresh energy to the team and they’re all mature players which will be really beneficial.
“We’ve also got the young ones who are coming up so there’ll be a good balance there and we’re definitely hoping to fight for silverware with this mix of players.”
Interim Phoenix head coach Amy Shepherd is excited to have re-signed Main.
“Emma is a local player with immense potential,” Shepherd said. “Her ability to inject energy into the team and pose a constant threat to opponents makes her an exciting prospect for the future.
“We caught glimpses of her talent last season and we’re confident she’ll continue to be a key player, bringing dynamism and creativity to our squad.”
Emma Main is the 14th 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.
