Two young American footballers are bringing their talents to the Hunter in 2026.

Following a season in Tasmania, Emily Funseth and Olivia Bekeleski will join Lake Macquarie City FC early in the new year for a stint in the NPL Women’s (NPLW) competition.

While they’re both enjoying life in Australia, the latter explained the duo was keen to experience the sport on the mainland.

“We’ve only been in Tasmania so far,” she said.

“But, we really love it down here, especially the culture.

“Originally, I wasn’t planning on staying more than a year, however I’ve ended up loving it so much that I don’t want to be anywhere else.” 

Funseth admitted her decision to move was very similar to Bekeleski, as she too, moved last minute to chase her football dreams. 

“After I graduated with my degree in sociology, criminology and psychology at university, I decided that I wasn’t done and would like to experience soccer in a different country,” she said.

“It was a super quick turnaround.”

Although the pair grew up in the same state and moved to Tasmania for similar opportunities, it almost seemed destined their paths would cross. 

“We met each other in Australia,” Bekeleski said.

“We got put on the same team, then in a house together, got along straight away and now we’re best friends.” 

Even though Tasmania isn’t the most popular location to pursue soccer ambitions, Bekeleski explained it was the perfect place to start their journey. 

“Moving there was a good first transition from playing football overseas, because it was relaxed and community based,” she said. 

“Now that we’ve kind of eased into it, we’re ready to play at a higher level that will challenge us. 

“We started looking for sides that would take both of us, and had a few calls with coaches, specifically in NSW.

“The Lake Macquarie manager reached out… and she was very honest with us right off the bat. 

“The club is new to the NPLW and one thing that really stood out to us is that everyone who played this past season was returning for the next year.

“That’s a really big deal and says a lot about their culture. 

“We also like that she’s a female coach.

“I’ve never experienced that.

“I have always felt that when there’s female and male teams, it’s either pretty even or there’s a lot of focus on the men’s sides, and she said it’s one of the few clubs that really emphasises the women’s side.

“That was important to us, so now we’re moving there. 

“Emily and I push each other, so I think we’ll be a strong addition coming in together.

“I play defence and she’s in the offence, so that also is helpful.” 

With strong track records and leadership experience as college team captains, the duo has proven themselves valuable assets to every squad they’ve been a part of. 

Their competitive yet sociable personalities, Funseth said, allowed them to adapt easily to new teams and environments. 

“Based on the high level that we’ve played at university, I think we will fit right in,” she told the Newcastle Weekly. 

“We’re both very competitive, hard workers and very easy-going people, too.

“It’s very cutthroat in the United States… and you’re seen as a number.

“However, here, it’s a lot more positive.

“There’s a bigger focus on each individual player and their growth.

“And, it’s been enjoyable.” 

For Bekeleski, one of the biggest surprises of playing in Australia has been the focus on mental health. 

“When you’re in university, trying to balance studying and playing soccer, it’s an everyday struggle,” she said.

“Being able to come to Tasmania, where we only practiced twice a week, playing one game weekly – it was a breath of fresh air.

“In regard to mental health, we’ve experienced everyone really cares about how you’re doing.  

“The players in our Tasmania team all felt responsible for each other; and I had never experienced something like that.” 

With accommodation yet to be locked in, the pair is still searching for a place to call home but remain excited to begin the next chapter of their journey in Newcastle.

“We’re excited to move to the area,” Funseth said. 

“From what we’ve seen and what we’ve heard is that it’s gonna be a step up from playing in Tasmania. 

“We’re excited to be surrounded by higher level players who are going to push us to be better. 

“We love Tasmania, it’s a great place, but we’re definitely keen for another change.”

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