Six Wellington Phoenix prospects called up for World Cup, incl. 16yo scholarship signing

Wellington Phoenix will be well represented at the upcoming FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup after six young talents were selected by New Zealand.

Grace Bartlett, Alyssha Eglinton , Emily Humphrey, Ela Jerez, Brooke Neary, and Katie Pugh have been called up by U17 head coach Alana Gunn for the major tournament in the Dominican Republic this month.

Eglinton, Humphrey, Jerez, Neary, and Pugh were part of the New Zealand side that won last year’s OFC U16 Championship to qualify for the World Cup.

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Jerez recently signed a scholarship contract with the Phoenix as the 16-year-old continues her rise through Wellington’s ranks and she will be the club’s youngest player for the forthcoming Ninja A-League campaign.

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“It always brings a sense of pride to the academy when we see players showcasing themselves on the world stage,” said Wellington Phoenix women’s reserves head coach Callum Holmes.

“This year we have had 17 players represent New Zealand at tournaments. 

“It’s a great achievement for all the players and a reward for their hard work.

“We are really excited to see the players perform on the world stage, and wish Alana and the team all the best for the tournament.”

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New Zealand has been drawn in Group A at the World Cup, alongside hosts Dominican Republic, tournament debutants Ecuador, and 2022 bronze medallists Nigeria. 

The U17 Football Ferns will open against Nigeria on October 17 before facing the Dominican Republic (October 20) and Ecuador (October 23).

“It is going to be a privilege to lead the team at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and I’m really pleased with the squad we have assembled after a competitive selection process,” said New Zealand head coach Alana Gunn.

“Having a number of the squad be part of the group for the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2024 last month has been good preparation for us, so we are looking to continue building on that momentum and challenging ourselves at the highest level. 

“We know Aotearoa New Zealand has obviously done great things at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup so we want this generation to take inspiration from that success and we look to proudly represent the country in Dominican Republic.”