Ben Trenberth

Ben Trenberth earned his first pro contract with the Wellington Phoenix at the age of 16 after impressing in the academy.

Having joined from Petone FC at the beginning of 2024, Trenberth has represented New Zealand up to U-17 level.

He was awarded MVP of the U-15 Christchurch International Cup in 2025 as the Phoenix took out the competition.

Trenberth was also part of the Phoenix academy side who travelled to China to compete in the Hope Cup 2026, where they faced academy teams from around the world including Nottingham Forest and AJ Auxerre.

The attacking midfielder also is the first student from the New Zealand Performance Academy Aotearoa, the charter school associated with the Phoenix, to sign a pro contract with the Nix.

> 2025-26 season

Ben Trenberth was a standout in the academy throughout the 2026 season, making his Central League debut early in the campaign and never giving up his spot.

As well as scoring against Auckland FC in the U-17 Development Series, Trenberth represented New Zealand at the OFC U-16 Championship and the U-17 Niigata Tournament.

He signed pro terms in September 2026.

“It’s been my childhood dream growing up, so to accomplish that is unreal,” he said.

“My parents, family and friends have all helped me along the way and I don’t think I would be there without them.

“This season I want to make my debut, especially in front of the home crowd, the Yellow Fever.”