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RAINBOW CITY-Two Alabama Rush boys’ soccer teams based out of the Sportsplex at Rainbow City are headed to the national stage this month.
Mega SportsPlex RBC said the Alabama Rush U13 Black and U15 Black boys’ teams have qualified for the US Youth Soccer National Championships in Utah.
The tournament runs from July 16 through July 23, 2026, in the Salt Lake City and Provo areas. The event brings together some of the top youth soccer teams in the country.
For a program based in Etowah County, the trip marks a major accomplishment. It also puts local players, coaches, and families in the national spotlight.
Local Players, National Stage
Alabama Rush trains and plays out of the Sportsplex at Rainbow City. However, the program draws talent from several communities across the area.
Players and coaches have ties to Southside, Rainbow Middle, Gadsden City Schools, Westbrook Christian, Oneonta Schools, Hokes Bluff, Glencoe, and Albertville.
Club Technical Director Warren Van Der Westhuizen said that local mix has helped build strong team chemistry. He said former local rivals have become teammates.
That bond, he said, has helped the teams compete at a high level throughout the season.
The Sportsplex at Rainbow City has also played an important role in their growth. The Etowah County Sports Authority built the facility, and the City of Rainbow City operates it.
Van Der Westhuizen said the facility gives players a strong place to train and improve.
Facilities And Community Support
Van Der Westhuizen, a native of South Africa, said he has worked around major soccer facilities in Georgia and Texas. Even so, he said the Rainbow City facility is “second to none.”
He also praised Rainbow City Recreation Director Philip Michael Hollingsworth and Sportsplex Facilities Director Stacy Jones. He said both have helped keep the facility in top condition.
In addition, Van Der Westhuizen credited Mayor Joe Taylor, Etowah County Sports Authority Chairman Randy Vice, and the Rainbow City Council for their continued support.
He said that support has helped the facility and the soccer program continue to move forward.
Road To Utah
The Alabama Rush U13 Black and U15 Black teams will face a demanding schedule in Utah.
The teams will play at the Regional Athletic Complex in Salt Lake City and Epic Sports Park in Provo.
Group play runs from July 16 through July 18. After that, the teams will have a rest and recovery day on July 19.
Knockout rounds run from July 20 through July 23. The tournament will end with national final matches on Thursday, July 23.
During the week, the teams will compete against some of the top youth soccer clubs in the nation. Coaches and supporters say the players will rely on hard work, training, and team chemistry.
A Big Moment For Northeast Alabama Soccer
For the players, the trip to Utah represents years of work. For the parents and coaches, it also reflects long practices, travel, and steady commitment.
The national championship appearance has brought attention to youth soccer in Northeast Alabama.
Mega SportsPlex RBC said communities across the area are standing behind the teams. That support includes Rainbow City, Gadsden, Southside, Oneonta, Glencoe, Hokes Bluff, and Albertville.
Whether the teams return home with a national title or not, they have already reached a major milestone.
Their qualification places Alabama Rush, the Sportsplex at Rainbow City, and Northeast Alabama soccer on a national platform.
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