Soccer Star CJ Bott to Captain Team While Pregnant

Professional soccer player CJ Bott just proved that captaining a team doesn't require being on the field.

The Wellington Phoenix captain announced she's expecting her first child in July with her fiancé Ryan. While she'll sit out the remainder of the A-League Women season, Bott is keeping her captain title and contributing to the team from the sidelines.

"We're over the moon and we're really excited for this next phase of our lives," Bott said. "To bring a little baby into the team will be a lot of fun."

The experienced Football Fern, who represented New Zealand in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, isn't letting pregnancy end her career. She's already contracted for another season and plans to return to professional play after her baby arrives.

Bott acknowledged the challenge ahead with characteristic optimism. "The next phase of my life is going to be a bit nuts," she said. "Adding a little one into the mix will be a lot busier, but I think it will be fun and a challenge that I'm more than ready to take on."

The Ripple Effect

Bott's pregnancy marks a milestone for the Wellington Phoenix organization as the first player to experience this journey while under contract. The team's response shows how professional sports can evolve to support athletes through major life moments.

Head coach Bev Priestman praised the moment. "We're absolutely over the moon for CJ and Ryan. She has the team's, the staff's, and the club's full support through this journey."

Mackenzie Barry will lead the team on the field while Bott continues her leadership work off it. Priestman emphasized that both captains share similar attributes: dedication to defense, incredible work ethic, and training with the same intensity they bring to matches.

The Phoenix is treating Bott's baby as the newest addition to their whānau (family). She'll remain involved in team activities throughout her pregnancy, offering the leadership and mindset that earned her the captain's armband in the first place.

Meanwhile, the team keeps winning. Wellington Phoenix recently secured a dramatic 2-0 victory against second-place Canberra United, moving back into the A-League Women top six.

By July, the Phoenix will welcome their smallest fan yet.