Erik Bushey

Rapids 2 Head Coach

Erik Bushey joined the Colorado Rapids in April of 2017 and currently serves as the head coach of Colorado Rapids 2 in MLS NEXT Pro. Bushey has held multiple positions within the club, including head coach of the Rapids Academy's U-17 team, U19 team and head coach of the Rapids U-23 team.

In his time with Rapids 2, Bushey has led his side to an appearance in the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro Western Conference Final and a No. 1 overall seed in the league in 2023. The team also led the league in goals (70) and assists (51) in 2023 and they currently hold the longest unbeaten streak (12 matches) in MLS NEXT Pro history. Bushey's success during the 2023 season earned him the title of MLS NEXT Pro Coach of the Year.

Bushey's coaching career spans over 30 years and includes roles as the Director of Coaching for Jackson FC (1995-2000), Assistant Coach at Whitworth University and Technical Director for Colorado Rush Soccer Club for 15 and a half years. Bushey has also been a staff coach for Region III ODP Boys, an Assistant and Head Coach for Region IV ODP Boys, an id2 National Staff Coach, a USL W-League Head Coach, a World Cup Assistant Coach for the U.S. U17 Women's National Team as well as Assistant Coach for the U.S. U23 Women's National Team. He has directed club teams to five national championships (coaching in three of them), directed two development academy teams to top eight finishes nationally, and in his club experience, has helped the development of over 40 national team players and over 20 professional players.

Originally from Auburn, Washington, Bushey graduated from Belhaven College in Jackson, Mississippi, where he was part of a NAIA National Championship side in 1992. His playing career continued seven more years in the USISL/PDL for the Jackson Chargers (USL National Championship runner-ups) and Spokane Shadow. He played, captained and coached at the USL level during his time in Jackson and Spokane.

Bushey holds his USSF “A” license, NSCAA National Diploma, and an Academy Director’s License, and an Elite Formation Coaching License through the French Football Federation.

Bushey currently lives in the Denver area with his partner Cami and has three stepchildren: Rylie, Connor and Alaina.