Zoe Benson inks three‑year contract with Wellington Phoenix

New Zealand 19‑year‑old forward Zoe Benson has become the first women’s player to commit to the Wellington Phoenix until 2029, signing a three‑year deal that includes two scholarship years. Benson joined the club on a youth development agreement in December after scoring the winning goal for Auckland United in the National League final.

She made 15 substitute appearances for the Phoenix in the A‑League, including the semi‑final second leg against Brisbane Roar, and scored her first senior goal in a 2‑0 win over Canberra United in January. Head coach Bev Priestman praised her impact, saying she “belongs in the A‑League for the long‑term” and highlighted her potential as one of the country’s most promising attackers.

Benson said signing a professional contract with New Zealand’s only professional team fulfilled a childhood dream and she hopes to become a starter next season. During the off‑season she helped Auckland United capture a third consecutive OFC Women’s Champions League title in the Solomon Islands and aims to represent New Zealand at the FIFA U‑20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.