New Sydney FC signing Jodi Ulkekul says she’s thrilled to have joined the Sky Blues and is eager to make her mark in her first Ninja A-League season in Australia.
The American attacker, who joined the club ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, spoke about the warm welcome she’s received and her excitement at joining a club with such a proud winning tradition.
“I’m just so excited and so grateful to be here,” Ulkekul said.
“The group has already been so welcoming, and it’s refreshing to be in an environment that demands high standards while still prioritising a healthy atmosphere on and off the pitch.”
Ulkekul said she’s relished the opportunity to adapt to new coaching methods and styles since arriving from overseas.
“Coming to a different country, you get new tactics, new styles of play and different coaching approaches,” she explained.
“It’s been humbling and exciting — I feel like I’m learning so much and growing as a player. Being in such a positive and fun environment makes it even more special.”
A Club With Clear Standards
The forward said it was clear from her first day that Sydney FC’s culture and expectations were set at a high level.
“There’s definitely an identity here and that was made clear from day one,” she said.
“The expectations were set early — it was kind of a ‘get on the ship or get off’ situation. This is a winning program, and we’re going to win.”
After a season where the Sky Blues fell short of their usual silverware standards, Ulkekul believes the response within the group has been strong.
“It’s normal to have blips in any team’s journey, but how you respond is what determines success,” she said.
“We all have a fire lit under us because of last year. It’s been a reminder of the work we need to put in, and I think that’s only going to make us stronger this season.”
High Ambitions and Healthy Culture
Asked about the team’s targets, Ulkekul said the squad is focused on high standards and taking each challenge as it comes.
“Every training session and every week our focus is on the next game,” she said.
“We know the expectations — this is a winning team and a winning culture.
Everyone here has earned their spot, and that drives us to prove it every day in training and in games.”
“Last year was a blip, not a new standard. We’re breaking that chain and starting a new one — with more wins.”
Working Under Ante Juric
Ulkekul praised Head Coach Ante Juric for his professionalism, experience, and approach to leadership.
“It’s been really refreshing to be around someone who’s so objective,” she said.
“From the first conversation I had with Ante, it was clear he has high expectations. Every time you step on the pitch — whether it’s for a game, training, or even beach runs — you have to earn your spot. Nothing is given.”
“He’s humble, experienced, and has so many wins to his name for a reason. I’m excited to keep learning under him and to grow into a player who can hopefully score a lot of goals this season.”
Why Sydney FC
The American forward said positive reviews from former Sky Blue Jordan Thompson helped seal her decision to move Down Under.
“I’d heard a lot of good things about Sydney FC, especially from Jordan,” she said.
“She was a big reason I was convinced this is such a healthy and successful program. It opened the door for me to want to come overseas and be part of it.”
A Dynamic and Versatile Attacker
Ulkekul describes herself as a hard-working, adaptable forward who loves to challenge defenders in different ways.
“I’ve played pretty much every position throughout my career, which helps me be versatile,” she said.
“As an attacker, I know what defenders don’t want to see — and I try to exploit that.
I love linking up with teammates, playing to feet, making runs in behind, and being dynamic.”
“I don’t think I have one specific style of play, and that’s a big strength of this team — we’re not one-dimensional.”
Above all, her hunger to make an impact stands out.
“I want to be in front of goal, take shots, make big runs and big tackles. I just want to be dynamic, adaptable, and effective for the team.”
Ready for the Challenge
Looking ahead to this weekend’s clash with Melbourne City, Ulkekul said she’s excited to test herself against one of the league’s top sides.
“I’ve heard they like to keep the ball and move it around to tire teams out,” she said.
“Ante’s been very clear that defence wins championships, and we’ve been working hard on that. But I’m also confident in our ability to attack aggressively and effectively when we have the ball.”
“They’re comfortable on the ball — but so are we. I can’t wait to get out there on Saturday and experience it for myself.”
Match Details
Sydney FC v Melbourne City
Ninja A-Legaue Round 1
Saturday 1st November 2025
Leichhardt Oval, Sydney, NSW
Kick Off: 2:15pm AEDT
Gates Open: 1:15pm AEDT
Broadcast Live: Paramount+ & 10Drama
Tickets: Click Here
