Phoenix founding player signs on longer term

Mackenzie Barry playing against the Brisbane Roar
Photo: Photosport

A founding member of the Wellington Phoenix women’s A-League team defender Mackenzie Barry has signed on with the club until the end of the 2024-25 season.

Barry was one of just three players to start all 18 matches in the side’s recently completed second season in the Australian competition.

“I never thought of playing for any other club. If I want to be playing in the A-League, then I’m always going to be playing for the Phoenix because I feel committed to the club and all the supporters,” Barry said.

“I’m really passionate about the team and the club and hopefully we can progress a bit further this year.”

The Phoenix finished bottom of the 11 team competition last season winning just three of their 18 games.

Paul Temple
Photo: Photosport

New head coach Paul Temple said Barry was one of the first players he wanted to re-sign when he took charge.

“Everyone describes Mack as a bit of a beast, but that’s a compliment,” Temple said.

“Her athleticism is fantastic. She’s quick, strong, dynamic and powerful and they’re all great assets to have as a central defender.

“Mack’s improved in possession as well and now she’s more composed. She’s becoming that all-round modern centre back that can play out from the back and build attacks from deep.

Temple said the two-year contract “shows the club really values her.”

“It provides a bit more security for Mack with her ambition to head to the Paris Olympics with the Ferns next year.

“We’ll see the women signing longer-term deals more often as the competition evolves and the players are more comfortable with the workings of the A-League.”

Barry has made seven appearances for the Football Ferns since making her international debut against Japan in October.

She’s the fifth Phoenix women’s player contracted for the 2023-24 A-League, joining Chloe Knott, Alyssa Whinham, Michaela Robertson and Emma Main in the squad.

-RNZ