The Wellington Phoenix are calling on families to donate used boots so they can be used by children in need this winter.
The club is holding a Budget Boot Drive to collect boots at their next two home games, and players from the women’s and men’s teams have been visiting schools to promote the campaign.
1News went out with the players, and caught up with some high-profile former players for this story broadcast on March 21, 2024.
Note: Since this story was broadcast, the Phoenix women have fallen out of finals contention.
Watch 1News story
About the Budget Boot Drive
In partnership with Budget Car Rentals, the Phoenix have launched the Budget Boot Drive ahead of their Easter double-header.
“For hundreds of families across Wellington, the high cost of uniforms, gear, and equipment is often a barrier to children starting or taking part in sport,” the club says.
To help combat this, the Phoenix will collect pre-loved boots at this weekend’s games at Porirua Park and Sky Stadium as part of its Budget Boot Drive.
The boots will be distributed to whānau and tamariki in need through the club’s Football For All programme.
Phoenix players and staff have already kickstarted donations by filling two bins with their old boots.
“It’s simple and easy to donate,” Phoenix general manager David Dome said.
“Dig out the boots collecting dust at the back of your closet, or the boots that your kids have long outgrown and bring them to one of our games this weekend.
“We want to fill the Budget van at Porirua Park on Saturday and at Sky Stadium on Easter Sunday.
“By donating, you will help hundreds of kids play sports that otherwise wouldn’t have been able to afford to.”
Budget Car Rentals, a partner of the Wellington Phoenix, approached the club with the idea of a boot drive.
“We are really proud to support this grassroots initiative to not only offer a little bit of practical help but hopefully create a positive impact for families who have children keen to join a club or play in a school team,” Bryn McGoldrick, Budget General Manager ABG said.
“It also acts as an important reminder about the power of reusing items that still have a lot of life left in them. You never know, some of the boots we collect may end up on the feet of future stars.”
The Budget van will be located beside the food trucks at Porirua Park and outside the main gate at Sky Stadium.
Fixtures
Games to be played on Saturday March 30, 2024
Women’s A-League
Wellington Phoenix v Western Sydney Wanderers
Porirua Park, Porirua, 4pm
Games to be played on Sunday March 31, 2024
Men’s A-League
Wellington Phoenix v Brisbane Roar
Sky Stadium, Wellington, 1pm
More football stories
