UPDATE: In a stunning development, Bev Priestman, the former head coach of Canada’s national women’s football team, has officially signed a two-year deal with Wellington Phoenix in the A-League Women (ALW), just days after her FIFA suspension ended. This appointment marks a significant moment in women’s football, spotlighting both talent and controversy.
The news broke on July 19, 2023, and comes hot on the heels of a scandal that rocked the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Just days before the Olympics, a drone was discovered hovering over the training session of New Zealand’s women’s football team, leading to revelations that the Canadian team had been using drones to spy on their opponents. This illegal tactic resulted in Canada being docked six points, severely impacting their ability to defend their Olympic title.
Priestman, along with an assistant coach and an analyst, faced a ban from all football-related activities for one year, effectively ending any chance of becoming the next coach for Australia’s Matildas. However, the end of her suspension has paved the way for her return to coaching, igniting both enthusiasm and skepticism in the football community.
Wellington Phoenix’s decision to hire Priestman comes after the appointment of her wife, Emma Humphries, as head of the club’s academy. The timing of these announcements has raised eyebrows, suggesting that the club had anticipated Priestman’s suspension would end just as they sought a new head coach.
In a statement, Priestman expressed her excitement about the new role, saying, “I’m thrilled to be joining Wellington Phoenix and contributing to the growth of women’s football in New Zealand.” Her credentials are formidable, and while her coaching skills are undisputed, the shadow of the recent scandal looms large.
This appointment is expected to have immediate implications for the A-League Women, as fans and analysts alike speculate on how Priestman’s experience will influence the team’s performance. The pressure is on for her to deliver results in a league that is becoming increasingly competitive.
As the football world watches closely, Wellington Phoenix’s bold move signals a willingness to embrace both talent and controversy, setting the stage for a thrilling season ahead. Fans are eager to see how Priestman will navigate her new role and whether she can successfully steer the team to victory while leaving the scandal behind.
Stay tuned for further updates as Priestman prepares to lead Wellington Phoenix into the forthcoming season, starting with their first match on August 2023. The football community is buzzing with anticipation over what this new chapter will bring.
