Wellington Phoenix have strengthened their squad ahead of the 2026/27 Ninja A-League season, signing American wingback Kam Pickett.
Pickett joins the Phoenix after spending her first professional season with Fram Reykjavik in Iceland, having previously played at Pepperdine University in California and Clemson University in South Carolina between 2020 and 2024.
Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman said Pickett’s athleticism, technical quality and character made her an ideal addition to the squad.
TRANSFER CENTRE: Ninja A-League 2026-27 Transfer Centre: Your club’s moves
Phoenix Coach Bev Priestman
“Kam is a very diligent, high performing person with good character,” Priestman said.
“And her athleticism and technical ability will really help the squad move forward next season.
“She had an impressive first year as a professional in Iceland, which is where Makala Woods joined us from, and she played for a very high quality NCAA programme before that.
“During the recruitment process Kam came across as a great fit for the group, which is a very important factor.
“She’s watched a lot of our games, understands what’s expected tactically and she asked some really good questions.
“Kam also met with a couple of our players to understand what she’s coming to. That tells me that this step in her career is also very important to her.
“I’m really excited Kam’s chosen to continue her footballing journey with the Phoenix.”
Wellington Phoenix line up in the Grand Final
Pickett said she was eager to bring her energy and attacking qualities to Porirua Park.
“I don’t stop working and I try to give my all on the field,” Pickett said. “If I fall, I’ll get back up and you’ll see me moving around on the field a lot.
“And it’s always a goal of mine to get my name on the stats sheet with assists and goals.
NIX NAMED: A-League All Stars Women: Jale and McKenna the latest stars named
“I love attacking as I enjoy getting the opportunity to finish.”
The 24-year-old also revealed Phoenix forward Makala Woods played a key role in her decision to make the move to Wellington.
“Makala was talking about how amazing her experience was in Wellington, which is one of the reasons I decided to come over.
Makala Woods of the Phoenix
“I’m very excited to play with her but also play on the team that made her season so great.”
Pickett believes the move presents an exciting opportunity to continue her development in one of the region’s strongest competitions.
“I’ve heard it’s a really good competition and the fact that Wellington did so well last season I’m more excited to join and hopefully this season we’ll be able to go all the way.
“Personally I’m expecting to improve on myself and my skills while I’m in the A-League, knowing the competition is strong. I’m expecting to be at the top of my game.”
The Phoenix now have 15 players contracted for the 2026/27 Ninja A-League season, with further squad announcements expected in the coming weeks.
