Iowa Rush news
Apex Soccer Academy and Iowa Rush Soccer Club Unite to Strengthen Player Development
Apex Soccer Academy and Iowa Rush Soccer Club have announced a new partnership, effective March 1, 2026, designed to enhance long-term player development while maintaining stability for players, families, teams, staff, and the local community.
Both clubs share a strong commitment to player-centered development, community values, and sustainable club growth. This partnership ensures continuity for Apex families while creating new opportunities through alignment with the broader Iowa Rush and VSA Rush organizations.
During the Spring 2026 season, all Apex teams will continue to operate as usual. Coaches, team structures, league participation, and day-to-day operations will remain unchanged. A gradual integration with Iowa Rush will begin with the 2026–27 seasonal year, including tryouts and club branding updates. At that time, the club name will transition to Apex Rush.
“This partnership is about building on what already works while providing a stronger pathway for our players and coaches,” said Kirk Artist, Executive Director of Iowa Rush. “Apex Soccer Academy has done an excellent job serving the Warren County area, and we are excited to support that foundation with additional resources, development opportunities, and national connectivity through the Rush Soccer network.”
Members of Apex Soccer Academy will gain access to the benefits of the larger Rush Soccer organization, including expanded player development frameworks, coaching education, curriculum alignment, and national-level programming—while preserving the familiar local environment that families value.
“This partnership allows Apex to grow without losing its identity,” said Tim Hugunin, Executive Director of Apex Soccer Academy. “Our players and families will continue to experience the same teams, coaches, and culture they trust, while gaining access to the added advantages and long-term stability that come with being part of Iowa Rush.”
Additional details will be shared in the coming weeks, including information on town hall meetings, tryouts, and summer programming opportunities.
For now, families can expect that the overall experience will remain largely the same, with the partnership providing meaningful benefits and a clear, thoughtful path forward for Apex Soccer Academy members.

Contacts
Kirk Artist, Executive Director - Iowa Rush Soccer Club
kirkartist@iowarush.com
Tim Hugunin, Executive Director - Apex Soccer Academy
timhugunin@apexrushsoccer.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Apex partnering with Iowa Rush?
Apex and Iowa Rush came together in partnership to enhance long-term player development. Both clubs share a strong commitment to player-centered development, community values, and sustainable club growth. This partnership ensured continuity for Apex families while creating new opportunities through alignment with the broader Iowa Rush and VSA Rush organizations.
Who is Iowa Rush?
Iowa Rush Soccer Club is a 501c3 youth soccer organization in Iowa with locations in Ankeny, Waverly, Pella and in partnership with Waukee and now Norwalk. Iowa Rush is dedicated to serving communities throughout the state with programs that prioritize skill development, core values, sportsmanship and community outreach. From foundational programs for young beginners to competitive leagues and elite teams, Iowa Rush is a soccer club for all.
Who is VSA Rush?
VSA Rush was founded as a collaboration between Vision Soccer Academy and Iowa Rush Soccer Club. VSA Rush seeks to inspire excellence and set the standard for player development in Iowa while providing elite competition opportunities to inspire lifelong growth and a commitment to develop players that embody integrity, resilience and teamwork.
When does the partnership take effect?
The partnership went into effect March 1, 2026. Iowa Rush will be helping to support club operations during the spring 2026 season.
Are there any changes for spring 2026?
No major changes. The logo, colors, uniforms, most team coaches, leagues, team schedule and fields will all stay the same. No additional fees/costs will be added to any programs.
Will my child keep their current coach and team for spring 2026?
Yes. Players will remain with their current teams and coaches for the ongoing season unless otherwise communicated.
Are practices, games, or leagues changing for spring 2026?
No immediate changes are planned. Teams will continue competing in their current leagues with their existing practice schedules.
How will tryouts work moving forward?
Tryouts will follow the same process. There will be 2 tryout dates per age group to determine team placement for the 2026-27 season. Tryout dates and times will be released at a later date. The biggest shift will be with the age group realignment. More details can be found HERE on the age group change.
What changes are planned for 2026-27?
The club will mostly look and feel the same with familiar coaches, staff, fields and uniforms. Some gradual changes and integration will start occurring, including:
Club Name - starting with tryouts and summer programming for the 2026-27 year, the name will shift to Apex Rush Soccer Club.
Logo - co-branded logos on website & marketing with the current Apex logo and Iowa Rush logo.
Registration - will be shifting to the Sprocket platform starting with tryouts and summer programming. Additional details on how to set-up an account will be sent in future communications.
Website - will be integrated into the Iowa Rush website and rolled out in early April.
Marketing - coordinated inclusion across social media platforms, including features such as Core Value Player of the Month and Team of the Week. Inclusion in Rush newsletters and communications from the larger Rush Soccer network.
What is the plan for uniforms?
For spring 2026 and the 2026-2027 year - uniforms will remain the same. Ordering will continue to take place through Decker Sports and players will be able to wear the same uniforms they currently have next year.
Will the costs for programs change?
The plan is to keep costs similar for all programs in 2026-27. Program costs will be reviewed and communicated as registration is released.
What benefits are there to being associated with the “Rush” network?
Being part of the Rush Soccer network gives families access to a global community and support system, proven player development pathways (including college and elite programs), and shared resources that can help your player grow stronger both on and off the field. Clubs also benefit from financial incentives, operational tools, coaching education, and increased credibility through association with one of the largest youth soccer organizations in the world. Find out more about Rush Fest, the Rush Select program and other Rush Soccer programs - RushSoccer.com.
Will the club still serve the local community?
Yes! The partnership with Iowa Rush is designed to strengthen and enhance local community relationships. As part of the partnership, all parties are committed to preserving the club’s local identity, deep community roots, and strong presence within the community.
Who will manage day-to-day operations of the club?
Local leadership, including Tim Hugunin, Mark Gavin and many of the same familiar staff will continue to manage daily operations, supported by the Iowa Rush leadership and administrative team.
Will there be additional communications regarding the partnership?
Yes, families will receive updates via email, the club website, and town hall meetings.
Will there be a town hall or information meeting?
Yes. A town hall/informational meeting will be scheduled to answer questions at a later date.
Who should I contact with questions?
Kirk Artist, Executive Director - Iowa Rush Soccer Club
kirkartist@iowarush.com
Tim Hugunin, Executive Director - Apex Soccer Academy
timhugunin@apexrushsoccer.com




























