The World's Greatest Youth Soccer Experience

Rush Fest

Oval logo with a blue

What is Rush Fest?

Rush Fest delivers a full week of competitive play, top-tier coaching, and high-energy social events, all built to give young players one of the most memorable soccer experiences of their lives. It’s the moment many Rush athletes first feel the power of our national community and realize they’re part of something bigger than their home club. Players walk away with memories that stick, friendships that matter, and an environment that pushes them to grow as teammates and individuals while experiencing the Rush Way in its truest form.

Who is it for?

Rush Fest is an exclusive annual event for 12U and 13U Rush players, bringing teams from across the country and abroad together to compete, learn, and celebrate the game we love.


Top-performing players will be evaluated for the  Rush Select program, giving motivated athletes another meaningful opportunity to stand out and take the next step in their development.

What to Expect?

Over six days, players rotate through competitive matches, on-field training, classroom sessions, team challenges, and social events built to strengthen connection and confidence.


Teams compete twice a day, mornings and afternoons, and are placed into brackets that match their competitive level. Every team gets meaningful, balanced games throughout the week.

Rush Fest is built on energy, excitement, and the unmatched spirit of Rush Nation. This week is all about celebrating who we are: the friendships we form, the way we compete, and the pride we bring to every moment. Players should arrive ready to play hard, cheer loud, and show the kind of team spirit that makes Rush Fest unforgettable.

A Week of Action & Fun For Everyone

  • Two men smiling outdoors. One in blue shirt, the other in black, on a sports field.

    For Coaches

    From coaching education sessions to socials. We wouldn't leave out our team leaders!

    Learn More

    • For Coaches

    The Rush Fest will give coaches the opportunity to learn first-hand about the Rush Way. Each day we will see coaches engage in an active learning environment. Coaches will be challenged to take part in a number of tasks including teaching players the Rush Way to warm up and defend corners. A coaching education clinic will also be held during the week. We look forward to supporting coaches on their journey in better serving players.

    • Coach Pairing

      To afford all the players at the event the best experience possible we ask that the head coaches (or assigned coaches) of each team assist another team within the event.



      Why do we do this?


      Rush aims to give all players the best experience possible. Assistant coaches can add knowledge, enthusiasm, and a unique opportunity for players to experience working with a coach from a different Rush club.



      Pairing coaches will allow for the development of relationships, sharing of knowledge and ideas between coaches. As well as the opportunity for head coaches to develop staff management skills, assigning staff to specific roles and responsibilities.



      It is an expectation that all staff actively engage in games, whether acting as the head or assistant coach. Assistant coaches are also expected to lead the team training session that will be held during Fest. This allows the players to hear a different coaching voice, maybe a different style and allow some coaching education for the team coach also.



      Introductions


      We ask that each coach contacts the coach listed as your partner to introduce yourself and give any relevant information about your team you feel necessary.  On the first night of the coaches meeting (immediately following the Opening Ceremony) we will have a chance to get together and meet before the morning games.

    • Coaches Socials

      Rush Fest isn’t just for players, it’s a week for coaches to connect too. Join us throughout the event for relaxed socials designed to bring our coaching community together. Meet new colleagues, swap insights, and enjoy time with the leaders who make the Rush Way come alive across the country.

    • Resources

      Rush Way to Teach & Coach

    • Rush Women's Alliance

      The Rush Women’s Alliance will be onsite at Rush Fest, hosting connection and learning opportunities for coaches who work with female athletes. Throughout the week, they’ll lead a networking event for female coaches, admins, and leaders, as well as an educational session focused on creating stronger, more supportive environments for girls in sport.

    Your Questions Answered

    For additional questions,  contact Nik Penn, npenn@rushsoccer.com

    • Who can register?

      Rush Fest is for 2014 & 2015 Boys & Girls Rush teams, regardless of where you reside. Physically filling out registration should be done by a coach or team manager (or parent, if you are only registering an individual.) We will have all levels of play, from DA teams to lower-level and everything in between.


      U12 play 9v9

      • Players born between: 08/01/2014 – 08/31/2015

      U13 play 11v11

      • Players born between: 08/01/2013 – 08/31/2014
    • Do I Have to Bring My Whole Team?

      Every 2013 is welcome! While we encourage full teams to attend so that you get to experience traveling with your entire team, it is not a requirement. We still encourage players to sign up as individuals or partial teams!

    • Can I Register as an Individual?

      Yes – if you are able to attend but you are from a state without a specific 2013 team, or there are not enough players to make the journey as a team, we have the option to register as an individual, and Rush Soccer will place you on a team for the week.

    • Do I Have to Stay at a Specific Hotel?

      Yes, Rush Fest is a “stay-to-play” event and you will reserve your block of rooms through the Fest Hotel Registration.

      Book Your Room
    • How Can Parents Book Hotels for the Same Rate and Location?

      Parents can book their hotels via the same link as players and coaches; however, we ask that you be courteous with your room block – space is limited, and we want as many teams/players as possible to have their choice of hotel.

      Book Your Room
    • When Should I Book my Arrival/Departure?

      The Opening Ceremony will commence at 5pm on Sunday, July 6th, and the last games will conclude by 2:00 pm on Friday, July 11th. Colorado has so much to offer in the summertime, we recommend you stay a few extra days to have some fun!

    • Okay, I Registered. Now What?

      You should receive an email detailing your registration submission. You will receive a Google Doc to fill out pertinent information regarding your team and will receive emails from Nik to collect payment, rosters, etc.

    • Are Parents Encouraged to Attend?

      Absolutely, this is a Rush-wide festival and we believe the parents should attend to experience the Rush Way in full effect too. We are asking the players to stay together in rooms with chaperones and coaches and not stay in the same room as their parents. This is likely the first time that the players are traveling and staying together as a team and we want to make sure that we give them the responsibility but under the supervision of their chaperones. Learning the Rush Way to travel is a part of this event!

    • What is Expected of a Rush Chaperone?

      Rush chaperones are volunteers and without them, this event wouldn’t be possible. Generally, chaperones are responsible, soccer-loving, and able to pass a background check. Specifically for this event, a chaperone must be punctual, tireless, and attentive. Typically a chaperone at the Rush Fest is responsible for driving the team to and from the fields, arranging all meals, sorting travel items, etc. Contact us if you need guidance.

    • What is the "Gift Exchange"?

      One of the big events we plan is a “kids only” (not strictly) social event in which players socialize amongst each other and exchange Rush gifts from their local club. It is a blast! We recommend you bring an item per child, but by all means bring more – the more a player starts with, the more they can trade for with other clubs! Your item can be anything customized to your local Rush club. (ie Colorado Rush t-shirts, Alaska Rush hat, etc.)

    • Do we have to bring our own equipment?

      Coaches are responsible for bringing their own cones and pennies and we recommend the players each bring a size 5 ball. With over 60 teams anticipated, we are unable to provide equipment for all teams, unfortunately.

    • Are There Volunteer Opportunities?

      Volunteers can help with a variety of tasks during the event, like field setup, and working at the fan store. We could use some helping hands who are anxious to be more involved. Contact shopeau@rushsoccer.com, and we will coordinate with you before the event.


      Thanks, and again, we appreciate your help!

    Two soccer players in white jerseys with blue trim, sitting in chairs under a tent, smiling.

    Fundraising Opportunities

    All donations will directly support essential costs like registration, accommodations, and travel. By contributing, you’re helping these talented young athletes reach their potential and create memories that will last a lifetime.


    What Your Support Covers:

    • Registration Fees
    • Accommodation at the DoubleTree Thornton and other local hotels
    • Travel Expenses
    • Coaching and Parent Education Programs
    • Classroom Sessions
    • Evening Activities for Players and Families


    Your gift is more than a donation—it’s an important gift in the next generation of soccer talent. Together, we can ensure that every athlete has the chance to shine, grow, and build lasting memories on and off the field.