Iowa Rush Core Value Player
We’ve got a lot of incredible players here at Iowa Rush and are excited to recognize and celebrate individuals who exemplify our core values!
We all know how vital it is for our players to not only excel on the field but also to develop strong character traits that will serve them well throughout their lives. This season, we look forward to highlighting players that embody these values in how the operate both on and off the field.
December 2024 - Unity
Emerson Berkenes is a great example of unity on the field. She’s always lifting up her teammates, no matter the score. Whether she’s with her usual group or in a different team at camp, she steps up with a positive attitude, supporting others and making sure everyone feels included. Her ability to bring everyone together and keep the team spirit strong is what makes her stand out.
November 2024 - Humility
Dara Geetings is a humble player and teammate. She is very competitive and skilled in her defensive position and is always focused on improving. She has an incredible work ethic and leads her teammates by example. No matter the situation as a defender if something goes wrong she tells her teammates/coaches what she could have done better. You will never see or hear her blame others for a mistake. Off the field she is a fun loving and kind hearted individual who likes to be around her friends.
October 2024 - Accountability
This season, Arnel Islamovic has truly stepped up as a leader, consistently embodying the value of accountability from the very start of the fall season. His proactive approach begins with initiating warmups and setting the tone for practice, ensuring everyone is focused and engaged. When he notices a drop in effort or concentration, he doesn’t hesitate to speak up, reminding his teammates of the standards they need to uphold. By addressing issues directly and encouraging a strong work ethic, Arnel has fostered a culture of responsibility within the team, demonstrating that he cares not only about his own performance but also about the collective success of the group.
September 2024 - Respect
Peyton Vorrie is respectful by nature: she shows kindness and consideration to teammates, opponents, referees, and coaches. It's rare to walk by Peyton without being met by a huge smile and friendly greeting. She has a genuine interest in others and expresses delight in others' success.
August 2024 - Safety
For our players to have fun while learning to play the game, it’s important that they feel safe. Brecken Allen has embodied the Rush core value of safety through his service as a referee this year. Managing upwards of 25 games this last spring, Brecken has contributed to a positive playing environment for players of all ages. We appreciate his and our other referees’ efforts in giving back to the soccer community.
May 2024 - Passion
If you haven't seen Emery Nordhagen playing at Prairie Ridge, chances are you've at least heard her! Emery is a leader on her team and exemplifies the Rush Core Value of Passion through her positive outlook, enthusiasm for the game, and pride in being part of our Rush community. She's constantly supporting her teammates and isn't afraid to deliver a pre-game speech when needed.
April 2024 - Leadership
Jaxon Jefferson, a member of the Iowa Rush Academy 2014 Boys Blue team, leads by example on the field. He conducts himself on the field in a way which demonstrates an appreciation of three things we are trying to develop within the Academy Program: Composure - We are thoughtful and intentional with the ball. Cooperation - We play together. We all attack and we all defend. Competitiveness - We keep trying. We do not give up.
March 2024 - Humility
Elijah Agbaje exemplifies humility through various actions and attitudes. As a member of the Iowa Rush U12 Boys Gold team, Elijah shows humility by acknowledging his teammates' contributions, celebrating successes collectively, and accepting mistakes without blame or ego. He demonstrates respect towards opponents and officials regardless of the outcome. Elijah's humility is reflected in his dedication to continual improvement, recognizing that success is not solely individual.
February 2024 - Enjoyment
Everlee Whitcome is not only a fierce competitor but also injects boundless personality and joy into every practice and game for our Iowa Rush North U11 Girls team. Her infectious spirit uplifts both players and coaches, motivating them to embrace the joy of the game while striving for personal growth and success.
January 2024 - Empathy
Grant Anderson exemplifies the core value of empathy. Grant's exceptional display of empathy both on and off the field sets him apart as a role model for sportsmanship. He has demonstrated a profound understanding of his teammates' emotions and needs, fostering a positive and supportive team environment and building great relationships with everyone on his team.
Grant Anderson's commitment to understanding and uplifting those around him makes him a deserving candidate for Player of the Month, showcasing the power of empathy in sports.
December 2023 - Advice
Marlee Buchan was nominated for her exceptional commitment and adaptability on the field. She is a member of our 2007 Girls team and, when tasked with playing a new position this fall, she didn't just accept the challenge; she wholeheartedly embraced it.
Marlee demonstrated a remarkable eagerness to learn and grow. She actively sought guidance by asking insightful questions, asked for feedback from both coaches and teammates, and consistently invested in her personal development to ensure she could be her best for the team.
November 2023 - Accountability
Madison Hames has been nominated as the Iowa Rush Core Value Player of the Month for her exceptional demonstration of accountability. A member of the 2012 Gold Girls team, Madison embodies the core value of accountability when it comes to her development both on and off the field. She habitually recognizes when her decisions might be counter to her learning experiences. Madison is attentive and always ready to respond with answers that showcase a deeper understanding of the Rush curriculum. She has a keen capacity to implement her learning experiences into her play and is supportive of her teammates as they problem solve together.
