Emerald Coast Rush Invites Community to USA World Cup Watch Party

The countdown is over!

The FIFA World Cup returns to the United States in 2026, and Emerald Coast Rush is excited to invite players, families, coaches, alumni, and soccer supporters from across the Emerald Coast to join us for Team USA's opening match against Paraguay.

The event will be held at Lost Pizza Co. in Niceville on Friday, June 12, with kickoff scheduled for 8:00 PM.

Event Information

USA vs. Paraguay

📅 Friday, June 12, 2026

⏰ Kickoff: 8:00 PM

🚪 Arrive by 7:30 PM for the best seating

📍 Lost Pizza Co., 1128 E. John Sims Parkway, Niceville, FL

🏟️ Emerald Coast Rush Watch Party Area: Front Room

The event is open to the public and all soccer fans are welcome.

Attendees are encouraged to wear their USA and Rush gear as we create a World Cup atmosphere right here on the Emerald Coast. Giveaways, coaches, staff members, and fellow soccer families will all be part of the celebration.

More Than Just a Match

For many soccer fans, the 1994 FIFA World Cup was a defining moment in the growth of soccer in the United States. It inspired a generation of players, coaches, referees, and supporters who helped shape the game we know today.

Emerald Coast Rush Executive Director Louis Richard believes the 2026 World Cup presents a similar opportunity. "The World Cup is the biggest event in the world, and the United States has the honor of hosting it this year. What a tremendous opportunity to come together as an Emerald Coast Rush family to watch the beautiful game.  The 1994 World Cup, also hosted by the USA, changed a generation of soccer players. I know this World Cup has that same opportunity to impact today's generation through the players they watch, the heartache they feel, and the celebrations they share. These moments become lifelong memories.  What better way to celebrate this worldwide event than with your fellow soccer community of parents, players, teams, and clubs?"

Building Community Through the Game

One of the greatest strengths of soccer is its ability to bring people together. The World Cup creates shared experiences that connect generations, inspire young players, and unite communities around a common passion.

Dalton Healy, Emerald Coast Rush Director of Coaching, had this to say about the world wide event, " "This Friday is the start to such an exciting summer! The world of soccer is the most thrilling environment, and we are beyond excited to HOST a World Cup. As a club, we couldn't think of anything better than to watch the US compete in their first match as a club and family! I can't wait to get together Friday and support the first game with everyone!"Whether you're a lifelong fan of Team USA, a current Rush player dreaming of one day playing on the world's biggest stage, or simply someone who loves the excitement of international competition, this watch party is an opportunity to experience the World Cup together.



We invite everyone in our soccer community to join us on June 12 as Team USA begins its World Cup journey.

Wear your colors. Bring your friends. Cheer loudly.

Let's make memories together.

RSVP Here: [Facebook Event Link]

#OneRush #OneCommunity #OneNation

This is the first of several Emerald Coast Rush World Cup Watch Parties planned throughout the tournament. Stay tuned for additional match locations and viewing opportunities.