Anaru Cassidy

Anaru Cassidy signed his first professional contract with the Wellington Phoenix in November 2025, inking a two-year scholarship deal.

He first joined the academy as a 16-year-old in 2022, having previously played for Western Suburbs and Waterside Karori.

He also represented New Zealand at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Indonesia in 2023.

While born in Gisborne, Cassidy considers Wellington to be home, having moved to the capital very young.

Cassidy’s A-League debut came before even signing a contract, entering as a substitute against Central Coast Mariners.

> 2025-26 season

Anaru Cassidy made his professional debut against Central Coast Mariners in round 3, coming on as a substitute for Hideki Ishige in Gosford.

Having missed out on selection for the FIFA U-20 World Cup, he spent pre-season training with the men’s first team and impressed head coach Giancarlo Italiano enough to earn a regular spot in the squad.

He signed a two-year scholarship deal not long afterwards, and made one further appearance against Adelaide United, while remaining an unused substitute on another eight occasions.