FROM RH3 to the USA

LEO CROSS TAKES THE NEXT STEP IN HIS FOOTBALL JOURNEY

RH3 Football Academy is proud to congratulate Leo Cross on an exciting new chapter in his football journey, as he heads to the United States to attend SPIRE Academy and continue pursuing his football dreams.

Leo’s move to the USA is an exciting opportunity and a fantastic reflection of the hard work, commitment and development he has shown throughout his time with RH3.

For Leo, the journey has been about much more than football. He has embraced opportunities to develop as a player, challenge himself and learn both on and off the pitch.

Leo’s Message

Reflecting on his time with RH3, Leo shared his appreciation for the people who have supported him along the way:

“A massive thank you to Ricki and the RH3 Academy coaches for playing such a big role in my football journey. A special thank you to Ricki for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to join Clive House, and to Raewyn for looking after me and making it feel like home.

“I’ll always be grateful for the support, memories and lessons I’ve gained during my time there.

“I’m now incredibly excited to take the next step in my football journey, moving to the United States to attend SPIRE Academy and continue pursuing my football dreams.

“I’ll always be forever grateful to RH3 and Ricki for helping me get to where I am today. Thank you for everything.”

A Message from Leo’s Parents

Leo’s parents also expressed their appreciation to Ricki Herbert and the RH3 team for the role they have played in Leo’s development and football pathway.

“A massive thank you to Ricki and everyone in the RH3 team for the support, guidance and opportunities you’ve given Leo.

“We are incredibly grateful for the role you’ve played in his development, both on and off the pitch. With your support and learnings, his football has significantly improved in this time.

“Leo now feels ready and excited to take the next step in his football journey and chase his dreams.

“Thanks again for playing such a meaningful part in his football pathway.”

SPIRE Academy Recognises Leo’s Potential

Leo’s talent and potential have also been recognised by SPIRE Academy.

Paul Smalley, Head of Player and Coach Development at SPIRE Academy, said:

“Identifying and recruiting some of the best young talent from outside the US is SPIRE Academy’s key priority. Leo Cross from New Zealand under the guidance of Ricki Herbert’s Academy RH3 is one of these players.

“Leo is a talented player who is on the verge of something special with an excellent pedigree. SPIRE, with its distinct development ethos, is privileged to have such a player.”

Opportunities Don't Happen by Chance

At RH3 Football Academy, we are passionate about providing players with opportunities to develop, challenge themselves and pursue the next level in their football journey.

Leo’s move to SPIRE Academy is another example of what can be possible when a player is committed to their development and willing to put in the work.

Hard work. Commitment. Consistency. A willingness to learn and improve.

These are the qualities that can help open doors.

From local development programmes to international tours, showcases and academy pathways, being part of RH3 provides players with opportunities to develop their game, gain valuable experiences and put themselves in a position to take the next step when the opportunity comes.

Leo has embraced that journey, and now he is ready for his next challenge.

Congratulations Leo!

Everyone at RH3 Football Academy is incredibly proud of Leo and what he has achieved.

We would like to wish him all the very best as he begins this exciting new chapter at SPIRE Academy in the United States.

Keep working. Keep learning. Keep believing.

We can’t wait to see where your football journey takes you next, Leo! 🇳🇿⚽🇺🇸

From RH3 to the USA — the journey continues.