Wellington Phoenix have confirmed both Brooke Nunn and Makala Woods have signed contract extensions at the club.
Ninja A-League Champion Nunn arrived at the Nix from Central Coast Mariners in the off-season and has become a crucial part of Bev Priestman’s side so far this season.
The English forward has registered four goals and three assists from 15 games so far this campaign and has signed on until the end of the 2026-26 Ninja A-League season.
Meanwhile American import Woods has been a revelation since arriving at the club during the mid-season transfer window and will also now be staying at the club until the end of 2026-27 season.
Brought in to help cover the loss of Nepalese star Sabitra ‘Samba’ Bhandari, Woods has bagged four goals and five assists in just seven games to help the Nix sit fourth on the ladder.
Ahead of the Matildas’ final group match against Korea Republic, a long list of women’s football luminaries gathered in Sydney.
Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman says the club is committed to investing in players who are invested in the team.
“I’m delighted to secure two players with a really high ceiling,” Priestman said. “What we’re seeing from Brooke and Makala now is only just the start, and I think that’s what excites me the most.
“We’ve also secured two big personalities, with massive hunger and desire, that are a big part of the culture of this team.
“Brooke’s unique. She has an ability to get at players one-vs-one. Her dribbling ability is exceptional and in this league that really shines through, not to mention her ability to assist with some great crosses.
“And Makala’s a dynamic forward who has many strings to her bow. She’s not just a forward that can finish, that certainly helps, but she’s quick, she’s powerful and she loves to defend too.
“I’m thrilled they’re both going to be playing for the Phoenix for another season.”
Aussie Star Clare Wheeler is frank as she addresses the extra travel that the team is facing, if they want to lift the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
Woods and Nunn become the first visa players to re-sign with the Phoenix in the women’s team’s five year history and means the club already has nine women’s players on its books for next season.
“I didn’t realise I could fall in love with a club, a country and a culture so much,” Nunn said.
“I have so much respect for the people and the land, and that’s such a big thing for me.
“I feel like we’ve been creating so many beautiful, historic moments at the Phoenix and I want to continue contributing to being part of the success of this team and really showing the world what this club’s about.
“I’ve been able to express myself at the Phoenix and Bev has put a lot of trust in me.
“I feel like it’s helped me step into a leadership role which has been great for my personal development.
“I see the potential in all of the players here and it’s great to help push them into believing in themselves, fulfilling their dreams and creating never-ending memories with them.”
Upon signing her new contract, Woods believes good things are on the horizon for this vastly improved Nix side.
“I’ve never felt so passionate about a group of girls and an organisation,” Woods said.
“This club, Bev and everyone have put me in a great place to be successful.
“I’ve been welcomed with open arms, I feel appreciated and I don’t feel I have to be anything other than who I am and what I bring to the table.
“We’re achieving a lot of firsts, we’re paving the way for something really great and it’s an honour to wear the Phoenix on your chest.”
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