Kunie Hirai Signs with Aurora FC: From Idaho Rush to the Next Level

Kunie Hirai’s soccer journey is the kind that shows what’s possible when talent meets opportunity, and when a player grows up in the right environment. From her early days at Idaho Rush to joining Aurora FC and starting college soccer at Utah State, Kunie is living proof of what development, dedication, and the Rush community can do.

“Signing with Aurora was super exciting,” Kunie shared. “I’m so grateful for this opportunity to keep growing as a player, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

This new chapter is just beginning, and it’s already shaping up to be a powerful one. After graduating early and enrolling at Utah State this January, Kunie knew she wanted to push herself even further before the college season kicked off. When she connected with Aurora’s head coach, Jen Larrick, the fit felt right and she signed soon after.

Kunie’s story starts with Idaho Rush, where she joined the club at just six years old and never looked back.

“Rush has always been committed to my development. I had the best teammates and coaches—our team won state championships, back-to-back regionals, and we made it to the USYS National Semis three times.”

Those experiences—and the people behind them—left a lasting mark. Coaches like Olly Frick, Rob Hill, Jens Haustein, Dan Codina, and Armando Sosa played huge roles in her growth, both as a player and as a person. Alongside Idaho Rush, Kunie also represented Rush Select at the regional and national levels, gaining high-level exposure and competition at an early age.

“Rush gave me the best environment I could’ve asked for. It taught me loyalty, resilience, appreciation, and humility. I’m forever grateful.”

Now with Aurora, Kunie is focused on development over stats. Her mindset is about long-term growth, not pressure.

“My goal is to learn as much as I can this season. I’ve already seen growth in my first week here. The coaching staff is amazing, and I know this summer is going to shape me for the better.”

She’s not chasing numbers. She’s chasing progress.

Advice for the Next Generation

Kunie’s message to young Rush players with big dreams is simple but powerful:

“Don’t let little things throw you off your path. Be consistent. Put in the work—no excuses—but give yourself grace too. Build good relationships and stay true to yourself. And most of all, don’t lose your love for the game. That’s what makes it all worth it.”

Kunie Hirai is a Rush player through and through. Her journey isn’t just inspiring, it’s a reminder of what’s possible when players are surrounded by the right support system.

We’re proud of you, Kunie. Keep climbing. The entire Rush community is behind you.


About Rush Soccer

Formed in 1997, Rush Soccer is the largest youth soccer organization in the world with more than 55,000 players in 50 countries. Comprised of 125 clubs around the globe, Rush Soccer has cultivated a reputation of excellence on and off the field all while maintaining a local feel in the communities we serve. This expansive global footprint provides unparalleled opportunities for our entire player base to pursue pathways all the way to the highest level of professional soccer. Our breadth and depth of programs support our network of local clubs, coaches, staff, and partners.

For more information about Rush Soccer, visit www.rushsoccer.com.

 

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