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Erika Bovell: Living the Dream with Venezuela’s U17 National Team

June 5, 2025
Player Spotlight: Erika Bovell, soccer player in yellow jersey, photo in frame. June.

For Kansas Rush standout Erika Bovell, 2024 marked a dream turned reality getting the call to represent Venezuela at the U17 CONMEBOL South American Championships.

“Being called up to a national team is the greatest honor an athlete can have,” Erika shared. “Walking into camp for the first time, I was nervous but so excited to train with the best players in Venezuela.”


Erika credits Kansas Rush and her coach Daouda Kanté for helping her get to this level. “My team plays at an elite level, and trainings are intense and well prepared. Coach Kanté has elevated my understanding of the game and pushed me to make quicker, smarter decisions on the field.”


The journey through national camp and into international tournament play in Colombia wasn’t easy but it was unforgettable. Training 6–7 hours a day, following a strict diet, staying disciplined with hydration, sleep, and mental health, Erika was all in. “We had an incredible staff supporting us trainers, doctors, psychologists and my teammates made it special. Competing against top talent from other countries only made me want to get better.”



Her motivation was crystal clear: “I wanted to represent my country on the field and help us qualify for the World Cup. I wanted to bring joy to Venezuela through this sport I love.”


Soccer player in burgundy uniform holding jersey.

To younger Rush players dreaming of similar moments, Erika offers this advice:

“Keep working hard. Stay disciplined. Dream big, because anything is possible with the right mindset and the drive to go after it.”
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About Rush Soccer

Formed in 1997, Rush Soccer is the largest youth soccer organization in the world with more than 60,000 players in 50 countries. Comprised of 175 clubs around the globe, Rush Soccer has cultivated a reputation of excellence on and off the field all while maintaining a local feel in the communities we serve. This expansive global footprint provides unparalleled opportunities for our entire player base to pursue pathways all the way to the highest level of professional soccer. Our breadth and depth of programs support our network of local clubs, coaches, staff, and partners. For more information about Rush Soccer, visit www.rushsoccer.com.

 

Media Contacts:
Rush Soccer Media Relations
Phone: (833) 546-7874
Email: marketing@rushsoccer.com

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