It is with great sadness that the Wellington Phoenix Football Club announce the passing of Russell Gray who died peacefully at his home Monday morning. 

Russell was a member of the Wellington Phoenix staff for over ten years, since the clubs inception, serving as both Media and Kit Manager up until the 2016/17 season. 

Prior to the Phoenix, Russell had an illustrious career writing for media outlets around New Zealand. He had been a newspaper printer at Press House, but his knowledge of football, and desire to become a sports writer resulted in him joining the paper, where he excelled. He specialised in reporting football, golf, softball, and netball from club to international level.

He also wrote biographies for sporting greats Ricki Herbet and Irene van Dyk.

Despite retiring, Russell was still actively involved around the club and could often be seen at training talking to players and coaches and writing articles for the club, including this past weekend’s match report. 

Russ was a great friend to all, not only at our club, but to all those that he crossed paths with in the A-League and beyond.

He is a man who was loved by so many players, staff and fans. 

On behalf of the Wellington Phoenix, our football community and all those that knew Russell, we send our deepest sympathies to his wife Barbara and family.