Bev Priestman Returns After Drone Scandal
After a tough year, Bev Priestman is finally back in football. The former Canada coach is ready to rebuild her career after the drone scandal that ended her time with the national team.
The 39-year-old English coach, who guided Canada to Olympic gold in 2021, will now lead Wellington Phoenix in the A-League Women’s season opener against Canberra United.
Priestman Embraces Her Coaching Comeback
After completing her one-year FIFA ban, Bev Priestman feels relieved and excited to return. She admitted the incident during the Summer Games taught her valuable lessons.
Instead of letting the controversy define her, she now focuses on helping her new team grow. Moreover, she aims to rebuild trust within the global football community.
Overcoming Challenges During Her Ban
During her suspension, Priestman faced emotional distress and public harassment. She revealed in an interview with The New Zealand Herald that some people even left rubbish outside her home.
“For months, life felt like survival,” she said. “People kept knocking on my door, and my family slept in the basement together.”
Despite the chaos, Bev Priestman stayed resilient. As a result, she used that dark period to reflect on her mistakes and prepare for a stronger comeback.
A New Start in New Zealand
Now, Priestman is turning her focus toward the future. She recently bought a house overlooking Whitby, Wellington, and says she feels deeply welcomed.
“When I look at the view from my home, I realize how much life can change,” she shared. “I feel grateful every single day.”
In addition, her wife, Emma Humphries, a former Football Ferns midfielder and current Phoenix academy director, supports her return. Together, they’re focused on shaping a bright future for women’s football in New Zealand.
Experience and Determination
Before joining Wellington Phoenix, Bev Priestman worked as New Zealand Football’s director of development. Her background in youth coaching and international management brings valuable experience to the club.
Furthermore, her leadership style based on discipline, honesty, and teamwork—has already inspired her players. Fans now hope to see Phoenix perform with renewed passion under her guidance.
Moving Beyond the Drone Scandal
Although the Bev Priestman drone scandal left a mark, she views it as a life-changing lesson. She believes in second chances and wants to prove her commitment through her actions.
“I just want to make this city proud,” she said. “This is my chance to give everything back to football.”
With renewed energy and determination, Bev Priestman steps into a new chapter, one that promises redemption, resilience, and leadership.
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