In the heart of Fremont Rush, something special is happening! It's not just about soccer matches and winning games; it's about nurturing young players to become responsible and compassionate individuals. The story unfolds with the Intermediate Academy Program, where Coach Jesus is leading the charge in instilling core values that go beyond the field.

The young athletes of the Intermediate Academy understand that their soccer pitch is more than just a place to practice and play. It's their home. With this sense of ownership, they have taken it upon themselves to care for and maintain the pitch. From removing debris to ensuring the goals are properly lined up, they treat it with the respect and love that one would expect from devoted stewards.

But it's not merely about groundskeeping; it's about character development. The young players at the Intermediate Academy are learning invaluable life lessons as they aspire to one day join the competitive program. Two of the Rush core values, accountability and leadership, are at the forefront of this journey.

Accountability: It's a fundamental aspect of any thriving team, and these young athletes understand its profound significance. By actively participating in the upkeep of their home pitch, they embrace accountability on multiple levels. They recognize their responsibilities not only to themselves but also to their teammates, coaches, and the wider community. This sense of accountability extends far beyond the pitch, shaping them into dependable and responsible individuals in all aspects of life.

Leadership: Another key value emphasized at the Intermediate Academy is leadership. These players are not just followers; they are encouraged to take the initiative and lead by example. They understand that leadership isn't defined by age but by actions. By caring for their beloved pitch, they become leaders within their team and serve as role models for younger players who look up to them. They inspire others to step up and be leaders in their own right, fostering a culture of leadership within the club.

We inquired with Coach Jesus about his decision to dedicate the final 10 minutes of each training session to pitch maintenance, and he explained that it goes beyond the physical act of maintenance. "Cleaning the pitch," he said, "represents our commitment to this club and our Rush community. It's about taking responsibility for something we love and making it better for everyone who uses it. It's a symbol of our dedication to excellence, both on and off the field. After all, the field is our home, and just like we would treat our own homes with care, respect, and love, we should do the same for our beloved pitch."

In the midst of their training and skill development, the players at Fremont Rush Soccer Club's Intermediate Academy are not just preparing to join the competitive program; they are preparing for life's challenges. They are armed with the values of responsibility and leadership, which will serve them well both on and off the pitch.

Go Rush!