Blackwatch Premier and Albany Ruhs merge to become Blacwatch Rush!

ALBANY, New York, Thursday, September 16, 2021: Northeast Rush, Albany Rush, and Blackwatch Premier today announced a momentous merger. The program will operate as Blackwatch Rush and will immediately serve Albany and the neighboring communities in the Captial Region.

“After 26 years of operating our club, and careful consideration, it became crystal clear we needed support to sustain our programming for the next 25 years and beyond,” said Steve Freeman, who will become Northeast Rush Academy Director as part of the merger. “Our Board of Directors felt strongly this merger brings together two outstanding programs locally and within the Northeast Region. I am excited and re-energized to take on this role, and it is a privilege to work with the many players and staff within the organization”.

Blackwatch Premier was founded in Albany, NY in 1996. This nationally renowned club was a founding member of the EDP, US Club Soccer, USL Super-Y League, and MLS Next. With a reputation for demanding the best development experience for its members, BWP has over 600+ alumni that have competed at the collegiate level.

Albany Rush was launched as a region of New York Rush in 2016. With substantial growth and success, including a state-wide Select program, 250+ alumni that have competed collegiately, and home to UWS and UWS-2 teams, a Women’s national league.

The clubs have been in talks for several months, and we are excited for the future of Blackwatch Rush,” stated Craig Thomas, Northeast Rush CEO. “The merging of two clubs that philosophies, player development, and coaching education align, working with like-minded people wanting the best for players and their development. The future will be bright for Blackwatch Rush and the opportunities we will offer the Capital Region.”

Blackwatch Rush is the joining forces of two proven and credible organizations in the greater Capital Region of New York. Aligning philosophies will provide new player pathways, programs, and opportunities that will draw from the extensive experience of club leadership. This relationship will be founded on strength and success, representing New York Rush, Northeast Rush, and Rush Soccer on a state, regional, and national platform.

“This merger will continue to support the development of our current elite players, as well as future elite players through our Pre-Academy program,” added Steve Freeman. “Our player-centric methodology driven by daily training periodization, with the additions of Sports and Mental Performance, and the Leadership Academy are proven to develop players who compete at the highest level.”

Northeast Rush is thrilled to welcome Steve and all members of the Blackwatch Premier to the Rush family. Please join us in welcoming them to the organization.

About Northeast Rush

Northeast Rush (www.northeastrush.com) is comprised of Rush clubs based in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, and North Carolina. With over 175 teams and 2500 players, Northeast Rush is one of the largest Rush groups within the organization. Headquartered in Newtonville, MA, with offices within each region, Northeast Rush offers premier-level club soccer, camps and clinics, recreational soccer, and international opportunities