Bev Priestman Leads Wellington Phoenix to Historic A-League Women’s Championship
This Saturday afternoon, as Bev Priestman takes her place on the sidelines at AAMI Park, she will be focused on guiding the Wellington Phoenix toward their first-ever A-League Women’s Championship. Fresh off winning their initial championship since 2020, Melbourne City is set to embark on a journey to South Korea for the AFC Women’s Champions League semi-finals in just four days. They are aiming for a remarkable treble following their second trophy of the season.
Priestman has a lot to consider: from team selection and tactical strategies to motivating her squad and exploiting her opponent’s weaknesses. Not to mention, she is determined to secure Wellington’s first victory against City on their ninth attempt. As her focus narrows on the match, questions about her unconventional rise to the A-League Women’s Grand Final linger in the background.
Drone Incident Shapes Priestman’s Career Path
Back in July 2024, as the New Zealand women’s national football team, the Football Ferns, prepared for their first match against Canada at the Paris Olympics, a drone buzzed over their practice session. Reported to the authorities, the drone was identified as belonging to the Canadian team, resulting in the dismissal of the drone operator, Joseph Lombardi, and assistant coach, Jasmine Mander, the next day. As Canada’s head coach, Priestman expressed her regret during the match and subsequently suspended her coaching duties for the remainder of the tournament.
Both Canada Soccer and FIFA initiated investigations into the incident, revealing that the drone was not an isolated case but indicative of a troubling culture affecting both the men’s and women’s teams. Although Canada secured six points in the tournament, they ultimately only managed three wins in the group stage and were eliminated in a penalty shootout against Germany during the quarterfinals.
The fallout resulted in a one-year suspension for the coaching staff, effectively sidelining them from football activities. Canada Soccer’s investigation pointed to systemic issues, underscoring the severity of the situation.
From Scandal to Opportunity: A Return to Coaching
Officially terminated by Canada Soccer in November 2024, Priestman and her family relocated to New Zealand, her wife’s homeland, seeking refuge from the scandal’s lingering effects. In the meantime, the Wellington Phoenix found themselves searching for a new head coach after finishing ninth in their fourth season of the Women’s A-League, prompting the dissolution of Paul Temple’s contract.
As July 2025 approached, the timing coincided with Priestman nearing the end of her suspension, creating a perfect synergy for both her and Wellington. She accepted the position just days after regaining her eligibility, a transition met with mixed emotions but an understanding of the circumstances involved. Phoenix chairman Rob Morrison expressed enthusiasm over her return to football, acknowledging the challenges she faced.
Transforming the Phoenix: A New Era
Priestman’s impact on the Wellington Phoenix has been monumental. Under her guidance, a previously struggling squad, often relegated to the lower end of the standings, has found its footing, finally showcasing the potential that had long eluded them. Midfielder Manaia Elliott shared her initial excitement about Priestman’s appointment on ESPN’s The Far Post podcast, expressing anticipation over the new direction the team might take.
As teammates began to work with Priestman, they quickly realized her coaching prowess complemented her engaging personality. This combination helped cultivate a positive atmosphere, inspiring players to elevate their performance. The allure of playing under Priestman has not only attracted New Zealand internationals like CJ Bott and Victoria Esson to Wellington but has also encouraged existing players to remain with the club.
Facing Unexpected Challenges with Resilience
Players like forward Grace Jale have cited the opportunity to work with Priestman as a significant factor in their decision to re-sign with the Phoenix. Long-time club member Mackenzie Barry echoed similar sentiments, proclaiming Priestman to be the best coach she’s ever had. It is clear that, while the drone scandal paved the way for Priestman’s ascendance to the role of head coach, her influence has been essential in transforming the Phoenix into a competitive force.
As Wellington Phoenix prepares for the Grand Final, the unexpected journey to this moment reflects the complexities of Priestman’s career and the club’s resurgence. What began with scandal has evolved into a story of redemption, culminating in this pivotal match. The Phoenix is now just 90 minutes away from concluding their remarkable narrative.
