Wellington Phoenix sign Matildas great Tameka Yallop

Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman has heralded the signing.

“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.

“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.”

Moments after the announcement, the Brisbane Roar announced they would be retiring the No 13 jersey to honour Yallop’s career at the club.

Family has lured Yallop across the Ditch, with wife Kirsty Yallop, a former Football Fern.

“My wife is a Kiwi so I have pretty strong ties to New Zealand,” Yallop said. “And I spend a little bit of time over here.

“We have two little ones and my eldest daughter has got a Tillies jersey and a Ferns jersey, and she tells everyone that she is Kiwi-Aussie or Aussie-Kiwi.

“It’s come to the point where we wanted to represent the New Zealand side of the family.”

Yallop was quickly sold on the Phoenix after visiting the club last month.

“I’m chasing that trophy and so is Wellington, so we’re aligned.

“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.”

She believes she can help the Nix improve on last season’s runners-up finish.

“I feel like I’ve still got a lot to offer. Being a senior player now it’s probably a little bit different to what I had to offer when I was a youngster coming up.

“Experience and maturity are two attributes I bring to the club. They had a great season last season but I feel like the Phoenix are still building.

“Hopefully I can bring a little bit extra to them and help with their consistency throughout the season.

“At the same time I’m also excited to get to know my new teammates and learn off them as well.”

Tameka Yallop is the 18th women’s player contracted to the Wellington Phoenix for the 2026-27 Ninja A-League, with the season starting October 16.

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