Revolution Academy’s Justin Rennicks thrives with U.S. U-18 MNT
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FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (Via New England Revolution / Jeff Lemieux) – New England Revolution Academy forward Justin Rennicks is no stranger to the U.S. National Team setup, having joined several Under-16 and Under-18 camps in recent years. His most recent experience with the U.S. U18s was an eight-day camp in Chula Vista, California, which wrapped up last Saturday, April 30.
Rennicks rejoined his Revolution Under-18 teammates for a training session inside the Empower Field House on Thursday night, but before lacing up his boots he reflected on his time with the USYNT.
“Honestly, it’s been getting better for me. I’ve been getting more used to going with the national team,” said Rennicks, who was first called into the U.S. U18s last July. “The chemistry is building up because this is a newer team. Everybody’s getting to know each other.”
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In many ways Rennicks’ talent translated to the international level immediately; he’s registered either a goal or an assist in every international tournament he’s participated in at both the U16 and U18 levels.
But there’s an adjustment period for every player who makes the leap into a national team camp, and Director of Youth Development Bryan Scales believes Rennicks has moved past that initial phase and into a place where he’s developing the skills he’ll need to reach the next level.
“When you first go into these camps, it’s a surprise. You’re excited, it’s new, the game is fast and you’re playing against other top kids from around the country and in international games,” Scales said. “Now I think the game has started to slow down a little bit for him, and when he goes into these international trips, I don’t think that Justin is in awe whatsoever.”
