Following the league’s midseason break, Denver Summit FC Head Coach Nick Cushing made it clear that his squad is eager to get back on the field as preparations continue for Friday’s matchup against the Kansas City Current.
Although Cushing admitted he is not a fan of midseason breaks, he believes the pause provided an opportunity for reflection while allowing his team to recharge mentally before entering the second half of the campaign.
“I’m really hungry to get back playing,” Cushing said. “I’ve never experienced a midseason break personally, so it feels a little bit like getting going again, but the energy, hunger, and desire to continue the good work we’ve done is there.”
Denver entered the break carrying positive momentum, and Cushing believes the club has used the time wisely by reviewing performances and identifying areas that have fueled its early success.
The coaching staff evaluated statistical data, match film, and overall team performances throughout the opening stretch of the season. While pleased with the club’s attacking production, Cushing also highlighted noticeable improvements defensively as the campaign progressed.
“Our attacking numbers are really good,” he explained. “We have to continue to attack teams. Our defensive numbers really improved as we went through those games, and we have to continue that. We’ve set outcomes for what we want over the next 19 games, and now it’s about sticking to the process.”
Looking ahead to Kansas City, Cushing expects another difficult challenge despite recent roster changes and the club’s Challenge Cup defeat. Rather than focusing on those developments, Denver continues to prepare the same way it approaches every opponent.
He pointed to Kansas City’s dangerous transition play and offensive threats, including Temwa Chawinga, Michelle Cooper, and Ally Sentnor, while noting his own familiarity with Kansas City head coach Vlatko Andonovski from previous coaching matchups.
“We’ve got to make sure we’re good with the ball so we don’t give them those gifts,” Cushing said.
The head coach also praised Denver’s new performance center, calling it a major advantage as the team enters the second half of its inaugural season. From pristine training fields overlooking the stadium to modern recovery and preparation facilities, Cushing believes the complex reinforces a culture of accountability.
“This facility gives us every opportunity to be the best we can be,” he said. “It gives us a no-excuse culture.”
Another storyline surrounding Denver continues to be the anticipated arrival of midfielder Lindsey Heaps following the completion of her commitments in Europe. Cushing expressed excitement about welcoming one of the world’s top players, emphasizing that her leadership and experience will strengthen an already developing squad.
“When she comes in, she’ll bring leadership, ambition, and energy,” Cushing said. “She’s super ambitious and hungry to get here.”
Cushing also acknowledged there will likely be one or two changes to Friday’s starting lineup as he looks to improve Denver’s ability to progress the ball and create attacking opportunities.
Finally, he addressed the leadership dynamic between current captain Janine Beckie and incoming star Lindsey Heaps. While recognizing the complexity of integrating another established leader, Cushing believes the transition will be seamless thanks to the close friendship and mutual respect shared by the two players.
“I won’t have to do much,” Cushing said. “Those two will do it together because they’re really tight. Leadership isn’t just about wearing the captain’s armband—it’s about your influence and how invested you are in the team.”
- Following the Midseason Break, Denver Summit FC Readies Itself For KC
- USMNT Moves On With 2-0 Win, But At a Cost
- USOPC Highlights Athlete Support, LA28 Preparations, and Governance Updates Ahead of 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games
- CJ Kirst Leads Waterdogs To Gutsy Victory
- Burnaby Extends Win Streak With Victory Over Langley
