The Cali Rise is coming in 2024-25

The Cali Rise will take the place of the current Fusion teams in the Development Player League and provide the boys equivalent in the Elite Academy.

The main changes, apart from a new name for the teams, is twofold.

1. We have partnered with Brentwood Revolution FC and split the teams we represent in the leagues. Fusion SC will pick teams with solely their players, in the U14, U16 and U19 teams. Revolution FC will pick teams with solely their players in the U13, U15 and U17 teams.
2. The Program will be free to Fusion players if picked. The club will fundraise to cover the costs of the programs. The players who are picked will only need to buy the uniform.

The purpose of this approach is to create drive and competition within the club, which in turn, will create a higher level across the club.

Furthermore, the player profile of a Cali Rise player is one that strives to play more soccer, wants to potentially play in college, likes to play around like-minded players and enjoys high level of competition.

To avoid any conflict within the teams, Ben Graham will lead the Girls DPL teams and selection, and Greg Rubendall the Boys EA teams. They will have assistant coaches for all the teams that will comprise of the Technical Directors and staff within those teams.

Here is an FAQ to help clarify any outstanding questions:

Do players from each club play for only the teams they represent?

Yes. Fusion players will only be able to play on the U14, U16 or U19 teams at Fusion. Players from the age groups within that banner will be picked for those teams.

For example, in the 2024-25 season, the U14 team will be picked from 2012 and 2011 players, U16, 2010 and 2009 players, and U19 players from 2006,2007 and 2008 players.

How many games do Cali Rise play and do they still play in the events selected?

Teams will play around 10 games during a 12-month period. The goal is to reach finals with every team and that is held in June. But the league will be 6-8 games, a few scrimmages are possible, and then 3 games at the showcase. This will be finalized this June.

Is the roster set or fluid?

The roster is always fluid. We expect to have 70% of the roster the same but also expect players to strive to get a place on the roster/team for games. If players aren’t training or playing that reflects the level of the team, they may lose their spot for the next game. Players will always be able to gain a place in the team and could make their way into the team. The roster is never shut, and we hope players use this as motivation to grow.

What is the player profile for someone looking to make the Cali Rise roster?

Commitment, character, teamwork, respect, and competition.  Coaches of the teams U12 through U19, will recommend the players showing the above within their Fusion teams. Ben and Greg will be present at the game, watch game films and attend practices to verify the players.

Will players receive greater support in their college pathway?

Yes, the players will also be expected at classroom sessions from time to time, some being on the college pathway and the expectations of a college athlete. The club has a new program designed for this coming out in the fall, but the players on Cali Rise will have additional clinics on the pathway.

Do the teams practice together at any point?

There may be some initial practices to ensure the players understand roles, but everyone should be on the same page due to the club curriculum and playing style. The team would practice before events and if, when, they get to nationals, have a week’s camp ahead of time.

Are there additional tryouts for the Cali Rise teams?

No. First you must make a Fusion Maroon/NPL team. This makes you eligible for the Cali Rise teams.

Where are home games played?

All home games for the DPL and EA teams are held at Robertson Park, Livermore.

How does this affect the Fusion Premier teams?

The Fusion club teams will be business as usual. We have 4 events planned for all teams along with league play. The new change is a spring event for all teams, vs playing State Cup.

We are excited about the new changes and direction of the elite player pathway. The Cali Rise has great potential to shake up the regional level of play and we are ready for it.

Please reach out to Ben@calirise.org with any questions.