If (and that's a big uncertain if) Edwards does leave permanently I think it would be a massive shame to lose her. She's put her best foot foward and I think could be the starting keeper going foward.
The main thing that would worry me about it is that we lose some younger talent that we could hold on to for a while in favour of someone that may be gone next year.
The main thing that would worry me about it is that we lose some younger talent that we could hold on to for a while in favour of someone that may be gone next year.
Probably depends alot on Alfeld, and if she is going to be okay to play next season. If Alfeld looks like being fit for 24/25, not so concerned if both Edwards & Foster leave.
And re SN's ignorant comments above on Elliott. You don't just tell an 18 yr girl to go & harden up. Ask anyone who has raised teenage daughters. There is often a 'handle with care' approach required. And they are all different. Some need a hug & more gentle guidance than others. They are all individuals so you tailor it, to whatever is required. I've got 5 yr twin girls - already I can see one is very sensitive, and the other much tougher mentally. Same environment, same DNA but they are very very different.
Whinham & Wisnewski have had some issues, and seemingly are in a good space now. Wisnewski certainly seemed to be prior her bad injury. It's still a relatively new team, with young players (paid a pittance) and coaches learning their craft in the pro space. But yeah if after a couple of seasons being in the pro environment, some of these girls are still struggling, then you may question whether pro football is for them - especially when they are paid so little in the ALW (which ain't likely to change anytime soon). But this is Elliott's first season so you give her time.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/football/a-league/301038011/brianna-edwards-granted-leave-by-wellington-phoenix-ruling-out-change-in-goal