Source: Radio New Zealand
Phoenix midfielder Macey Fraser challenges for the ball against Melbourne City in 2023. Photosport / Masanori Udagawa
Wellington Phoenix midfielder Macey Fraser has been granted a leave of absence to address her mental health.
Fraser re-joined the Phoenix on a three-year contract in September, but has yet to play for the club since returning from Utah Royals.
Director of football Shaun Gill said the Phoenix would continue to support Fraser while she takes time away from football.
“In conjunction with our performance psychologists and club doctor it’s been agreed Macey needs a break from the pressures of high performance sport.
“Football, like a lot of sports, can be all consuming and she is much more than just a footballer.
“We want Macey to have a long and successful football career, but that shouldn’t come at the expense of her mental health.
“We all believe a break will do her the world of good and we look forward to having Macey back in our environment when she’s ready.”
Fraser left the Phoenix in 2024 for what was a record A-League Women transfer fee at the time to join the Utah Royals in the NWSL on a three-year contract, before returning to Wellington this season.
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
