Have always maintained that the US is a fantastic pathway for up and coming Kiwi talent
Seems to be an absoute production line for kiwi CBs too. Nelsen, Boxall, Tuiloma, Bindon, Surman and now Bulkeley
The only reason I believe we don't see more Kiwi lads giving it a crack is because of the visa requirements to play MLS, MLSNP, USLC or USL1. Unless you go the college route of course.
If you've played at any level for New Zealand - especially 17's through 23's for the younger guys, and have any sort of pro experience that should be enough to be granted the visa. From people I've talked to specifically about this, having a bit of A-League experience will serve you well at USLC Championship level for example, which in and of itself is pretty on par/slightly ahead of the MLS Next Pro in terms of level of play.
Finally, you forgot Kyle Adams off your list too. But I'm pretty sure he's a green card holder, so that makes it even easier. 😉
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Unknown editoredited January 31, 2025 23:43
Friar Tuck
YoungHeartHM
Nice step up in quality for Bulkeley, and fully deserving of his own thread now.
Joins the 2024 MLS Next Pro Champions North Texas SC on a 1+1 deal.
North Texas of course being the reserve side for MLS club FC Dallas.
Strengthening our backline for the title defense 💪
We've acquired New Zealand youth international James Bulkeley, from UAE side Gulf United FC!
Have always maintained that the US is a fantastic pathway for up and coming Kiwi talent
Seems to be an absoute production line for kiwi CBs too. Nelsen, Boxall, Tuiloma, Bindon, Surman and now Bulkeley
The only reason I believe we don't see more Kiwi lads giving it a crack is because of the visa requirements to play MLS, MLSNP, USLC or USL1. Unless you go the college route of course.
If you've played at any level for New Zealand - especially 17's through 23's for the younger guys, and have any sort of pro experience that should be enough to be granted the visa. From people I've talked to specifically about this, having a bit of A-League experience will serve you well at USLC Championship level for example.
You forgot Kyle Adams off your list too. But I'm pretty sure he's a green card holder, so that makes it even easier. 😉
Unknown editoredited January 31, 2025 22:58
Friar Tuck
YoungHeartHM
Nice step up in quality for Bulkeley, and fully deserving of his own thread now.
Joins the 2024 MLS Next Pro Champions North Texas SC on a 1+1 deal.
North Texas of course being the reserve side for MLS club FC Dallas.
Strengthening our backline for the title defense 💪
We've acquired New Zealand youth international James Bulkeley, from UAE side Gulf United FC!
Have always maintained that the US is a fantastic pathway for up and coming Kiwi talent
Seems to be an absoute production line for kiwi CBs too. Nelsen, Boxall, Tuiloma, Bindon, Surman and now Bulkeley
The only reason I believe we don't see more Kiwi lads giving it a crack is because of visa requirements. Unless you go the college route of course.
If you've played at any level for New Zealand - especially 17's through 23's for the younger guys, and have any sort of pro experience that should be enough to be granted the visa.
You forgot Kyle Adams off your list too. But I'm pretty sure he's a green card holder, so that makes it even easier. 😉