Phoenix lock in experienced keeper

Goalkeeper Lily Alfeld will go down in history as the first signing made by the Wellington Phoenix women.

The 26-year-old said she was ‘‘over the moon’’ to put to paper earlier this week and confirm her return to A-League Women, where she played for Perth Glory last season.

But as she prepares to take on a key role for New Zealand’s first professional women’s football team, she is equally excited about what it means for younger players coming up through the ranks.

‘‘It’s been such a long time in the making, so for it to actually be across the line and to get the chance to play for a New Zealand team is so exciting.

‘‘I think it’s such a monumental moment for women’s football in New Zealand, that all these young girls can now see they can play professionally and they can do that in their country.

‘‘To be a part of that is special.’’

Alfeld will provide an important dose of experience and leadership to a

Phoenix team that is likely to be among the youngest involved coming

A-League Women season.

Perth had a tough time of it last year, coming together very late in pre-season, then having to deal with Covid-19 border restrictions in Western Australia, while being a very inexperienced side.

They finished winless through 12 matches, but Alfeld was honoured as the players’ player of the year after a strong campaign in goal, and she feels her experience will be beneficial to the Phoenix, who are expected to start training next week, less than seven weeks out from their opening match.

‘‘We faced quite a lot of challenges with Covid and a delayed season and how our team was put together at the very last minute,’’ Alfeld said of her time in Perth.

‘‘I think that’s similar to what we’re going to go through with the Phoenix, so having gone through all that and knowing how to navigate it and just being flexible, I think that will help a lot going into the season and hopefully I can help some of the young girls in the same way.’’

At least 10 other New Zealanders are set to join Alfeld in the Phoenix ranks in the coming days and weeks, most, if not all, of whom will be making the step up to A-League Women for the first time.

She said she was looking forward to other Kiwis getting the chance to test themselves at a higher level.

‘‘It was such a great league to play in, so I’m really excited for, not just myself, but all the girls to get to play at that level.

‘‘I think it’s just another step up from what we have here in New Zealand.’’

Phoenix coach Gemma Lewis is expected to draw largely on players from the Future Ferns Domestic Programme and the club’s academy when filling out her inaugural squad.