The Wellington Phoenix have confirmed the release of two 'vererans' of the club in Oskar Van Hattum and David Ball, who are moving on to different futures.
Van Hattam is set to join Irish club Sligo Rovers, ending the 22-year-old’s eight-year association with the Phoenix, having joined the club’s academy as a 14-year-old.
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Van Hattum departs with 41 A-Leagues appearances in three-and-a-half seasons, though he was limited to four games in 2024-25.
“It’s really, really difficult to put into words all of the emotions that are coming through because ever since I knew what football was I’ve been a Wellington Phoenix fan,” said Van Hattum, who featured in 17 matches during Wellington’s historic campaign last term.
“I feel really lucky and privileged to be able to say I was a Wellington Phoenix player for eight years.
“I’ve been here for over a third of my life so I’m stepping away from home, all of the amazing people I’ve worked with and all of the teammates that have helped me get to where I am.
“It’s sad to finally be making the decision to leave but at the same time there’s a certain level of excitement jumping into what I would almost consider an unknown, considering how inaccessible the Irish league is in New Zealand.
“And I think that’s what’s exciting about this move to have new surroundings, new faces and new opportunities.
“It’s also best for my career going forward to go and get gametime. The more minutes I get the more I’m able to show what I’m able to do.
“It’s time for a new challenge and I’m really looking forward to it.”
David Ball is departing the Wellington Phoenix after over five years at the club PHOTO: A-LEAGUE
Meanwhile Ball is leaving after five-and-a-half years with the club after the Phoenix mutually agreed to terminate the remaining six month’s of the 35-year-old’s contract.
The Englishman leaves Wellington a “legend” after arriving in July 2019. He is one of just 16 men to play 100 A-Leagues games for the club and helped the ‘Nix reach the Finals Series in four of his full five seasons.
Ball tallied 15 goals and 26 assists during his time with the Phoenix.
“It’s been a tough call to make,” Ball said. “There have been a lot of tears coming to this decision as the Phoenix have been a huge part of mine and my family’s life.
“I’ve put my heart and soul into the club since I got here and I’ve fallen in love with the Nix, the people around it and the fans.
Ball is yet to make a decision on his future, though the veteran has not ruled out returning to the Phoenix down the track