Wellington Phoenix have made the signing of the Ninja A-League off-season so far, recruiting Matildas legend Tameka Yallop for the 2026/27 campaign following her departure from Brisbane Roar.
A foundation player with the then Queensland Roar, Yallop has made the decision to leave Brisbane in a bid to be closer to family in New Zealand and has now put pen-to-paper on a one-year deal with last season’s Grand Finallists.
Furthermore, there is scope for Yallop’s deal to be extended for a further season as she now gets set to work under famed Wellington Phoenix Head Coach Bev Priestman, who not only guided the Nix to their first ever Finals Series but also a first ever Grand Final.
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“I’m chasing that trophy and so is Wellington, so we’re aligned,” Yallop said, after news of her signing was confirmed by both clubs.
“Getting the opportunity to work under Bev was a massive drawcard, not to mention the facilities at NZCIS. They’re second to none.
“It’s a high performance environment in Wellington and that’s something that I love being a part of and the Phoenix have shown they’re dedicated to their women’s programme.
“That was a major pull for me too. The club have proven that they’ve consistently invested in the women’s game and are looking to continue that as well.
“They have a quality group of players and are bringing in more quality for next season. I can’t wait to join them.”
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Yallop is currently training with the A-League Women All Stars ahead of their exhibition clash with English giants Chelsea FC at Allianz Stadium on Wednesday night and joins new Nix teammates Brooke Nunn, Grace Jale, Pia Vlok and Makala Woods in the squad.
“We’re bringing someone into the group with an immense amount of experience,” Priestman said.
“Not only has Tameka played in high pressure moments for the Matildas over the past 20 years, but she’s also been part of the A-League women’s competition since it started and has experience in some of the world’s top leagues.
“For a decorated Australian international like Tameka to make the move to the Wellington Phoenix speaks volumes about where this club is now at.
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“She’ll really add to the team. Tameka can play multiple positions, she’s dynamic, has a lot of energy, is technically very gifted and she scores goals, which was one of the key reasons for signing her.
“We look forward to welcoming Tameka to the Phoenix whānau.”
Yallop leaves as Brisbane Roar’s all-time record appearance holder and all-time leading goalscorer in the club’s women’s program, finishing on 179 matches and 74 goals.
The Matildas great made her club debut aged 17 in 2008 and leaves aged 33 and having well and truly cemented a legacy in Queensland that has also seen her win club awards such as the Kate McShea Medal, Golden Boot and Players’ Player of the Year gongs whilst also being named in the PFA Team of the Season.
Furthermore, Yallop’s standing at the club was formally recognised in May, when Brisbane Roar’s Ninja A-League Women Young Player of the Year award was renamed in her honour.
“I’m not saying goodbye to Brisbane as Roar will always be my home. The orange jersey is heavily immersed in my football journey and it will forever be a part of me,” an emotional Yallop said of her Roar departure.
“I am so proud and honoured to have lifted trophies and shared the field with such incredible players and people throughout my time at the club.
“I am Roar’s number one fan and will forever be cheering on the girls and anyone who puts on that jersey.
“We have so many amazing young players coming through, I’m excited to follow their football journey and will of course be a source of support whenever I’m needed.
“The girls have not only been amazing teammates and friends, they have and will continue to be so inspirational to both of my young daughters.”
In a further tribute to Yallop’s legendary stint at Brisbane Roar the club has also decided to retire her number 13 shirt, making her the first player, man or woman, to have
their number retired by the club.
Speaking on departing, Brisbane Roar CEO Kaz Patafta said, “Tameka defines what it means to be a Brisbane Roar footballer.
“She was there for the very first match in 2008 and she kept coming back because this is home, and there is a reason our Young Player of the Year award now carries her name.
Longevity, professionalism, loyalty to this club and to the game, and a standard that never drops.
“It was a privilege to have her at the club for as long we did and we are honoured to retire her number forever in thanks of her commitment to the football club.
“Tameka leaves with our absolute best wishes for the future and we thank here for everything she has given this club and its fans.”
