The life of a professional footballer can be glamorous, but it has its downsides.
Christmas in New Zealand isn't quite as nice when your extended family is back in the Netherlands, as it is for two Phoenix imports who are a long way from home.
A year ago, the thought of spending Christmas in New Zealand probably never crossed striker Jeffrey Sarpong's mind. But football is a strange world with plenty of twists and turns.
"For me it's quite different than Holland," Sarpong says. "I mean, I'm here with my family – wife and daughter – but back home I get to spend time with my siblings, my dad and everyone."
As the only Dutch players in the squad it can be a difficult time.
"My brother's 11 years old so he really looks up to me," Sarpong says. "But hey, you know, thank goodness for Skype and FaceTime!"
Welcoming teammates are also appreciated.
"We as a team, we're like a family," says midfielder Roly Bonevacia. "They are great if you know you are feeling lonely or down, so it's really good."
Despite differing views on the Wellington weather, both players are enjoying life in the capital.
Not only can the weather change fast, but so too can the career paths of footballers. Bonevacia – one of the best players in the A-League – is settled in Wellington for now.
"I love it here, but I want to see how high my bar is," he says. "So I want to play for a higher club in a higher league."
Time will tell then whether he gets to spend another Christmas in New Zealand.
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