Although the U18 Academy team fell just short of their goal of making the Academy playoffs this season, it was still a memorable year for Connor Johnson, a transplant from Mississippi Rush who took a chance and moved to Colorado chasing his soccer dreams. CJ took a few minutes to share thoughts on his time in Colorado living at the Titan house.
Rush: What has been your favorite part of playing with the Colorado Rush DA the past few months?
CJ: My favorite part about playing with the DA has been the dedication everybody gives every single training session, and the passion that Erik and Sean show in making each player better.
What was the hardest part of leaving home and coming to Colorado to play soccer?
Being a senior in high school, and growing up with all my friends since 6th grade year, leaving them was my hardest hurdle to jump over. Also, leaving my family. We take our family for granted sometimes, and once you move 1000 miles away from them, it makes you put many things into perspective. Another obstacle I had to conquer was basically beginning a new life, new friends, and a TOTALLY different climate lol.
What are your plans for next year?
I am continuing my soccer career at Mississippi College, and majoring in Sports Management.
Any advice for young DA players about chasing your soccer dreams?
Advice for young DA players--- I can't guarantee success, but if you are willing to do the work that is expected of you by your coaches then you will have the best opportunity to succeed in your soccer goals.
"CJ took a chance (as did his parents). He left the comfort of home; he left the notoriety of being a top player in his home state; he left his senior year of high school. CJ took the road less traveled, and we are most grateful that he did," exclaimed U18 DA Coach Sean Bushey. "The soccer and the life experience will be something that remains with him for the rest of his days. He gave his all and in return, this experience will keep on giving back to him. We are proud of CJ; we are thankful for his sacrifice and know that he will continue to represent Rush Soccer in a manner that lifts our standard. More importantly, we know that he will continue to represent his family in the extraordinary way he did this past season."
