The Wellington Phoenix academy have looked internally to bolster their staff following Chris Greenacre’s elevation to the men’s first team.
Joshua Neff has replaced Greenacre as the men’s reserves head coach while also being named assistant academy director.
Cam Grieve has also been elevated to head of boys’ talent development and men’s U-18 head coach.
Academy director Emma Humphries says both have earned their promotions.
“Josh has been an integral part of the Wellington Phoenix Academy system throughout the past two seasons,” Humphries said.
“He has led our Capital Premier team for two years, stepping up numerous times to lead the men’s reserves, leading the staff on the development of our academy curriculum and being an exceptional mentor for all of our coaches.
“Having worked with most of the boys throughout the past few seasons, Josh has a great understanding of what the next stage in development looks like for each individual and is working hard to push the men’s reserves to new heights.
“Cam has also done a fantastic job since joining us this year. He has hit the ground running and taken a strong lead in all of our pathways and structures.
“Cam came to us with a lot of experience having been the Head of Academy for Tauranga Moana. This skilset and ability to lead both staff and players at an exceptional level has been recognised and rewarded in him moving up our system.”
Having led the men’s reserves on an interim basis since Chris Greenacre became the A-League men’s head coach, Neff is prepared for the new job.
“The academy has been improving each year and it’s an honour to continue the work we have done lifting up the youth sector of the Wellington Phoenix,” he said.
“I am also thrilled to continue to work with a top staff. They are dedicated to the improvement of the individuals here and make our place of work an exciting place to be.
“Thank you to the Phoenix for their support and thank you to my family for their unwavering love and backing as we’ve traveled across the world for me to work in the beautiful game.”
Grieve is also excited to take on a new challenge.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with the U-16 group over the last few months and becoming part of the club environment,” he said.
“It’s been a valuable experience building relationships with the players and staff and gaining a deeper understanding of the academy.
“I’m really excited for the opportunity and challenge ahead with the U-18 group as we continue supporting the development of young players within the pathway.”
All eight Wellington Phoenix academy teams will continue to be in action over the winter across various Capital Football leagues.
