Kenosha, WI and Racine, WI - April 11, 2023 - Rush WISE and AFC Union announce a partnership creating a player pathway for all players from Southeastern Wisconsin under the umbrella of Rush Union WI.  Rush Union WI will offer boys and girls teams for ages U12-U19.  The two clubs, both prominent in Southeastern WI and their respective communities, will collaborate to leverage their combined resources for the benefit of players, coaches, and families. 

“We are so excited to offer this opportunity for the kids and families in our communities. We have a rich soccer history in this area and look forward to writing the next chapter of excellence through our collaboration.”  said Vlatko Minic, Technical Director and Director of Coaching, Rush Wise. 

For years, the two clubs have provided excellent soccer options to youth throughout southeastern Wisconsin. These two clubs share a similar ideology and playing style. Player development has always been a primary emphasis for Rush WISE and AFC Union, with the goal of providing the finest player experience possible, across both the training and game environments. 

“We are thrilled to partner with Rush WISE to create a unified premier soccer program for Southeastern Wisconsin. This partnership will provide the opportunity for the youth in Racine, Kenosha, and the surrounding areas to play and compete at all levels, while staying close to home." - Nick Wentorf RASA/AFC Union, Board President

Players of all levels will benefit from some of the best coaching talent in the State, and gain access to the Rush network and national competition platforms. (See our player pathway for more information).

“We piloted this joint effort last season and saw tremendous success with all three teams in their local and regional competitions. Through this joint effort, we will not only strengthen the opportunities for the top players, but for all developing players in our organization.” said Roy Wiggemansen, Director of Soccer, AFC Union

Rush Union WI expects these new elite team opportunities to attract players of the highest caliber from across a wide footprint in Wisconsin.  The tryouts for these new teams will occur during the usual June timeframe for soccer clubs in Wisconsin.