[RUSH SOCCER] Many U.S. youth clubs have had working relationships with foreign pro clubs, but Rush Soccer has taken a unique approach with its agreement with Unecatef, French soccer's coaching union.

The program starts this month with half a dozen Unecatef members visiting with the three Rush Development Academy clubs. The program will then be expanded later in the year to all Rush clubs wishing to participate. Rush's many clubs encompass 34,000 players.

A series of lectures and seminars will then be organized for Rush technical directors and coaches at the French federation national center in Clairefontaine.

Former Monaco president Jerome de Bontin is the Rush chairman. Former French national team coach Gerard Houllier is on the club's board of directors.

“The is a very good step for Rush Soccer," Tim Schulz, the president and founder of Rush Soccer. "I was a fan of the French Football Federation’s long-term vision and infrastructure.  I think it is the best in the world. It will be nice to tap into their history and expertise.  To date, this is without a doubt the best partnership we have had since the inception of the club’s forming.”