Alyssa Whinham, the 20-year-old attacking midfielder, believed her tenure with the Wellington Phoenix women’s team in the A-League had concluded after the previous season. However, she has now secured a fresh contract with the Phoenix that extends her commitment until 2026. Over the past three years, Whinham has featured in 38 matches for the Phoenix but faced challenges in securing consistent playing time under coach Paul Temple last season.
“I’ve been here since the beginning and experienced a lot of ups and downs, which have helped me grow both as a player and as a person,” reflected Whinham. “I vividly remember our last game at Porirua Park, thinking it might be the end of my time here. Having another two years is a blessing. I’m determined to use this opportunity to prove myself in this league.”
Previously struggling to secure regular playing minutes at the start of the last campaign, the former New Zealand U-20 international underwent a period of personal growth. “I hit a low point where football didn’t seem fulfilling,” she admitted. “After a mental reset and a brief break, I returned stronger. It was a pivotal experience that shaped my character.”
Whinham concluded the season on a positive note, starting six of the team’s final seven games. “I focused intensely on my mental preparation to ensure I was in a positive mindset, which allowed me to contribute effectively to the team,” she noted. “Confidence is key for me to express myself on the field and contribute with goals.”
Expressing contentment with continuing under Coach Temple, who becomes the first Phoenix head coach to lead the team across multiple seasons, Whinham emphasized their familiarity and shared vision. “We understand Paul’s coaching philosophy and style of play,” she affirmed. “His ongoing presence provides stability, allowing us to concentrate on our performance without concerns about coaching changes.”
Temple, in turn, praised Whinham’s pivotal role within the team’s future prospects. “She’s a crucial creative force in midfield and really came into her own, making significant contributions particularly in the latter half of the season,” he commented.
The two-year contract extension has been hailed by Temple as a source of stability for both Whinham and the club. “Her commitment to the Phoenix is a testament to her dedication and desire for continual improvement,” he remarked. “With Alyssa focused on her development and game, she can play a significant role in our future success.”
Whinham’s renewal marks her as the 11th player under contract for the upcoming 2024-25 season, with negotiations ongoing with other players whose contracts are expiring.
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