O'Dor's law forces tough decision

Wellington Phoenix FC and Steven O’Dor have mutually decided to part company, with the young Australian defender making the tough decision to quit professional football and focus on continuing his studies toward law and commerce degrees.

O’Dor, two years into a four-year double degree in law and commerce, was given an exemption by Deakin University in Melbourne to join the Phoenix for their inaugural season in the Hyundai A-League.

However, last week O’Dor received news that forced him to consider his immediate future as a professional footballer.

“Up till now I’ve been able to have a balance between football and university but I received a letter from the university last week requesting that I go back, otherwise I’d lose my spot. So I’m going back home to Melbourne to pursue my university credits.

“It’s a tough decision but I’m making it in my best interests. I’ve had to let one go and pursue the other because I can’t do both.”

The Phoenix granted O’Dor’s request to be released from his two-year contract.

Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata said O’Dor had been a valued member of the club.

“Unfortunately he’s had to make a very tough decision but the club fully understands his rationale. Steven’s a terrific young player and he has a big future. We wish him all the best.”

O’Dor said he was honoured to have worn the Phoenix jersey in the club’s debut season.

“It’s been fantastic – the boys have been tremendous because we’re such a tight-knit group. Departing like this is very hard as a player that’s been here right from the start through the ups and downs in what’s been a great learning curve for the club.

“Being involved in just about every game for the club has been an honour and I wish the Phoenix all the best for their endeavours in the future.”

While textbooks and lectures will occupy much of O’Dor’s time in the next two years, he will not be lost to football.

“In Melbourne hopefully I’ll be able to play part-time and strike a balance again – football’s a passion and I get up every morning looking forward to the time I get to kick a ball.

“I’m only 20, so even when I finish [at university] I’ll still be classified as a young defender. Hopefully I’ll be able to come back and be a stronger person.”

O’Dor played 13 games for the Phoenix, adding to the four Hyundai A-League caps he gained with the New Zealand Knights in 2006/07. His earlier career was spent with South Melbourne FC in the Victorian Premier League and at the Australian Institute of Sport. He has also represented Australia at under-23 level.