CJ Bott is the first Wellingtonian to be appointed to lead the Phoenix.
The experienced Football Fern has been confirmed as the women’s fulltime captain for the 2025-26 Ninja A-League, having worn the armband in their first three matches of the season.
Bott is the women’s third club captain in the team’s short history, following in the footsteps of Lily Alfeld and Annalie Longo.
“I’m very honoured to wear the captain’s armband,” Bott said.
“There’s a lot of responsibility that comes with it but they’re an easy bunch of girls to work with and there are a lot of other leaders within the team.
“Just because I’m wearing the armband doesn’t mean everyone else doesn’t have the responsibility to lead as well.
“I don’t think a team is led by one person. It’s definitely about the collective that’s for sure.”
It is the first team Bott has captained since leading New Zealand at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Azerbaijan in 2012.
“I’ve always thought of myself as someone who leads by example.
“I talk a lot on the pitch but off it I’m a little quieter. I like to let the football do the talking.
“I enjoy leading from that perspective and being commanding on the pitch.”
Phoenix women’s head coach Bev Priestman says Bott has stood out as a leader since the start of pre-season in September.
“From the minute CJ came through the door her competitiveness, her training intensity and her standards really shone through,” Priestman said.
“She also has an ability to take people with her and that’s really important for a captain. The armband is a natural fit.
“CJ really epitomises what we want a Phoenix player to look like; hardworking with high standards.
“She is a big part of our long term plans too. We’ve signed her on a multi-year deal as this project is not just a one year flash in the pan.”
The Wellington Phoenix women are on the road for the first time this season against reigning premiers Melbourne City this afternoon.