FRISCO, Texas (Jan. 17, 2024) – North Texas SC announced the signing of New Zealand International James Bulkeley from United Arab Emirates Side Gulf United FC. Bulkeley signed a one-year deal with a club option for a second year.
MEDIA ASSETS: Photos of Bulkeley are available here.
“James is a composed and determined center back that will bring excellent international experience to the group,” North Texas SC head coach John Gall said. “At his young age, we are looking forward to working with him. He has great leadership characteristics that will be pivotal to our continued success.”
Bulkeley joined Gulf United FC in September 2024. He made 20 appearances, logged 1,683 minutes and scored one goal. He played 55 minutes in the UAE President’s Cup First Preliminary Round against United FC.
The Napier, New Zealand, native signed his first professional contract with UAE club Fleetwood United FC in 2023, where he helped the team win the UAE Second Division League. Bulkeley registered 15 appearances and logged 1,050 minutes with Fleetwood. He made his professional debut in the 84th minute of the match against Laval United on Oct. 10, 2023. Bulkeley started his career at the Fleetwood Town International Football Academy in Dubai.
Bulkeley represents New Zealand at the international level and he competed in the U19 Oceania Football Confederation Championship during July 2024. He appeared in four matches during the tournament and scored a goal in the final against New Caledonia. The All Whites earned a spot in the FIFA U20 World Cup 2025 hosted by Chile.
With Bulkeley’s signing, North Texas SC has 10 players under contract for 2025:
Goalkeepers (1): Victor Darub
Defenders (4): James Bulkeley, Isaiah Kaakoush, Zach Molomo, Kaka Scabin
Midfielders (3): Jaidyn Contreras, Leonardo Orejarena, Caleb Swann
Forward (2): Gianluca Cangiano, Sam Sarver
TRANSACTION DETAILS
Full Name: James Andrew Bulkeley
Preferred Name: James Bulkeley
Pronunciation: bulk-LEE
Connect with Bulkeley: Instagram
Position: Defender
Date of Birth: May 14, 2005 (19)
Birthplace: Napier, New Zealand
Nationality: New Zealander
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 185 lbs.
Last Club: Gulf United FC
Transaction: North Texas SC signs defender James Bulkeley for the 2025 season with a club option for 2026.
