For three years, Rapids Academy soccer player Andre Erickson (far right) lived with the Mathes family. Photo courtesy of the Mathes family

Andre Erickson was just 15 years old when he left California for Denver to join the Colorado Rapids Academy, a high-level training program designed to develop elite soccer talent. To help athletes relocate, the Rapids operate a homestay program that matches players with local host families.

Jen and Rob Mathes, longtime Rapids season ticket holders, were approached about becoming a host family and decided to give it a try. The experience, they said, has been rewarding for both them and their two sons.

“It’s been really exciting to see a young athlete at this professional level—the training, the dedication, and the discipline they have,” Jen said. “I’ve never seen that, and it’s been really fun to be a part of that.”

Over the past three years, the Mathes family has gotten to know Erickson well, cheering him on at most of his home games and watching him grow on and off the field.

For Erickson, it was initially difficult to leave his family and friends behind, but eventually, the transition became easier after he settled into the program.

“Once you start practicing and getting involved, the homesickness eases up and you make new friends,” he said.

His days were demanding. Erickson typically arrived at the training facility by 7am and often didn’t return home until 5pm. Along with intensive soccer training, academy athletes complete four hours of online academic coursework each day.

Rob said he would recommend the program to families interested in hosting a student-athlete. Prospective families go through background checks and multiple interviews to ensure a good fit. Families receive a modest stipend that mostly helps cover food costs, and the Rapids provide ongoing support for both athletes and hosts.

“They have staff who talk to the athletes about school, mental health, and nutrition,” Rob said. “And we’ve always had good support whenever anything came up.”

Erickson accepted a scholarship to play soccer at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania this fall. The Mathes family plans to stay in touch as he continues to pursue his soccer dream.