One criticism that Shoot-Out continually heard after the Wellington club arrived in November was "they don't do enough to support the Illawarra community".

The impact of Covid limited what they could do, however, the Phoenix introduced "Wollongong appreciation month" and started wearing a Wollongong Wolves-inspired home jersey. In recent weeks, the club has been actively giving back to the community as restrictions ease, holding junior football clinics, running a youth centre workshop and supporting a local refugee program.

It has also translated into on-field success, with the Phoenix winning their past two A-League games.

Midfielder Clayton Lewis, who helped run a clinic in Coniston on Friday, said it was a "privilege" to support the Illawarra community.

"It's amazing. And now with no restrictions, we can get out and do a bit more. I know a few of the other boys are doing some holiday program stuff, so we're happy to be here," Lewis said.

"We're starting to get more and more fans now, so it's obviously exciting. With the fan base they've got here for the Wollongong Wolves, it's showing at the moment - and we're happy to wear that red and white. We're enjoying it."

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The Phoenix are also getting behind an initiative to support Ale Lopez Osornio. Ale, a member of the club's Mexican fan base at WIN Stadium, remains in the ICU after suffering horrific burns in a boating accident over the Easter long weekend.

Ale is now in a stable condition, but a GoFundMe page is providing financial support for her road to recovery. So far, more than $55,000 has been raised.

The Mexican fan base formed in February to show their support for Phoenix captain Ulises Davila, the only Mexican player in the A-League. In return, Davila says he hopes fans will do what they can to help Ale.

"I want to wish the best for Ale and her family in her recovery. I hope that a lot of people support her like they support the team, and support me," Davila said.

"It's tough for Ale so I hope other people can help her recovery. I'd like to see her in the crowd again soon."

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Wellington coach Ufuk Talay agreed, saying it was a "nice gesture from our club" to support Ale's cause.

"I think there's been a lot of support towards her and I think Wellington Phoenix has done so much for the community in Wollongong. I hope she gets well soon," he said.

"It's been great that they (Mexican fan base) have been coming down. It's been great for 'Uli' and the team with the atmosphere they bring to the stadium."