The Rapids Undercurrent: January 2010

Saturday, January 30, 2010

Catching Up With Former Rapids Coach Tim Hankinson

YanksAbroad.com has a very good article catching up with former Colorado Rapids Head Coach Tim Hankinson, who is currently coaching in India.

Hankinson, who coached at Ft. Lewis College in Durango, CO after leaving the helm of the Rapids, left the Centennial State to become the first American coach ever to take the reins of a club in Asia.

Hankinson's describing of the off-the-field challenges he faces on a daily basis as the head man at Salgaoacar SC in Vasco Da Gama in Goa, India are almost unbelievable.

Some of his excerpted quotes:

"The challenges outside the field like nutrition, malaria, monsoon season, etc...make the year a challenge beyond the game itself. The infrastructure must get better for soccer to get better. Fields for practice are poor and game fields and stadiums need improvement.

"Monsoon season in June/July/August makes training impossible. There are only two field turf fields in all of India.

Recalling a recent match: "The stadium had more than 500 crowd control police with shields, bats and rifles and we tied the game in the 90th minute. On the bus ride out of the stadium, the fans of East Bengal were lined on every side pounding the bus with rocks and bricks.

"[One the] size of a softball came through the window and everyone [got] on the floor of the bus. Later we heard fans were warming their arms up on us getting ready to show displeasure towards their own team. Two players went to the hospital.

"Basically, if I ever again hear an American coach complain of field conditions, hotels, meals, etc...I will come over there and kick their [butts]!"

Check out YanksAbroad for this good read on Hankinson's pioneering efforts; the entire article is here.

Friday, January 29, 2010

Rapids Alum Bartlett Making Waves in South Africa

Good article today by MLS on Rapids Alumni Player Shaun Bartlett.

Bartlett, the South African native who starred up front for Colorado in the club's first 2 seasons of 1996 and 1997, finds himself 15 years later heavily involved with the sport in his home country, as they sit on the verge of hosting the world's largest event this summer.

Excerpted quote from the article:

"My humble appeal to all South Africans is that we must come together to support the national team and stop giving out a negative attitude towards Bafana," Bartlett recently told Kickoff.com.

"It is vital we start at the bottom and lay a solid foundation. Our goal is to produce players who will represent Bafana at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil."

Bartlett recorded 9 goals and 9 assists in 36 games played for the Rapids in '96 and '97.

Read the whole article here.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Rapids' Season Opener at Chivas Changes Dates

The Colorado Rapids announced today that the club’s 2010 season opener against Chivas USA at The Home Depot Center has changed dates.

The game, which was originally scheduled for Sunday, March 28, will now be played on Friday, March 26 at 8:30 p.m. MT.

The following weekend, the Rapids return to the friendly confines of Dick’s Sporting Goods Park for their home opener, hosting the Chicago Fire on Saturday, April 3 at 2 p.m. MT.

Rapids Season Tickets are available by calling the Rapids at (303) 825-GOAL or online at www.ColoradoRapids.com.

ESPN Unveils 2010 World Cup Broadcast Schedule for US Viewers

ESPN has unveiled their broadcast times for the 2010 World Cup for viewers here in the USA.

For the most important question soccer fans are asking in Colorado, broadcast times for kickoff of the matches here in the Mountain Time Zone will be 5:00am, 7:30am and Noon MST for the group stages, 7:30am and Noon for the Round of 16 and Quarterfinals and Noon MST for the Semi's and 11:30am for the Final.

For the complete ESPN broadcast announcement, click here (note times listed on the broadcasts are EST).

From their website:

ESPN will present comprehensive coverage of the 2010 FIFA World Cup June 11, through July 11, from 10 stadiums in nine cities across South Africa. All 64 matches will be aired live and in high definition on ESPN, ESPN2 and ABC, and extensive coverage on ESPN360.com and ESPN Mobile TV. In addition, 2010 FIFA World Cup studio programs, including prematch, halftime and postmatch segments, will be presented in high definition.

ESPN will air 44 FIFA World Cup matches from South Africa – the most ever for the network in one tournament. ESPN2 will feature 10 matches. ABC will broadcast 10, beginning with the U.S. Men’s National Team’s tournament opener vs. England on Saturday, June 12, at 2 p.m. ET in Rustenburg. The tournament will conclude on ABC with the title match Sunday, July 11, at 1:30 p.m. ET from the Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg.

DSG Park Hosting Referees' Mentoring Program This Weekend

Calling all referrees: there's a unique mentoring opportunity taking place this weekend at Dick's Sporting Goods Park.

From our friends at Play The Whistle:

"Whether you are new to the referee community or a veteran referee, everyone is welcome and encouraged to join Play The Whistle for free continuing education. Spectators, coaches, and soccer enthusiasts who want to understand more about the job of the referees are also invited.

The mentor program is in place to provide support and continuing education to promote referees, increase referee retention and enhance the level of officiating at all levels.

This is a great opportunity to better understand the laws of the game, hear from presenters about topics other that the typical laws of the game, and learn tips and pointers that have made other referees successful."

Details for this weekend's event:

January 28 – 31, 2010
North – South Showcase/Friendlies Hosted by Westminster AFC
Where: Dick’s Sporting Goods Park – Turf Fields 8 & 10
2010 is the 4th Annual North South Showcase for U16 – 18 boys and girls teams. Mentor program throughout the weekend of games. Games will be played Thursday evening 1/28 at 6:30 & 8 PM, Friday evening 1/29 5, 6:30 & 8 PM. Saturday 1/30 8 AM – 12:30 PM & 5 PM – 8 PM. Sunday 1/31 8 AM – 12:30 PM. Referees officiating the games will be provided feedback and advice during half time intervals and after games. Saturday at 11 AM & 5 PM PTW will offer a group observation and discussion about the games. Referees, parents of referees, spectators who are interested are welcome to join us for the education discussion. See you at the fields!

For more information on Play The Whistle and their referees mentoring program and other resources, visit their website.

Monday, January 25, 2010

Rapids Youth Teams Weekly Schedule

This week's training schedule for the Rapids Youth Teams, courtesy of the Rapids Academy:

January 25 – January 31, 2010

Monday: Rapids Youth Teams off

Tuesday: Training, Rapids U15-U18 Teams, 6:00pm, Fields 8 and 10
Indoor Training, U11-U12 Teams, 6:00pm, Adams City High School Gym
Indoor Training, U13-U14 Teams, 7:00pm, Adams City High School Gym

Wednesday: Training, Rapids U15-U18 Teams, 6:00pm, Fields 8 and 10

*Thursday: Training, U15-U18 Teams, 5:00pm, Fields 8 and 10
Indoor Training, U11-U12 Teams, 6:00pm, Adams City High School Gym (Optional)
Indoor Training, U13-U14 Teams, 7:00pm, Adams City High School Gym (Optional)

Friday: Rapids Youth Teams off

**Saturday: Training, U15-U18 Teams, 3:00pm, Fields 8 and 10
Indoor Training, U11-U12 Teams, 10:00am, Adams City High School Gym
Indoor Training, U13-U14 Teams, 11:00am, Adams City High School Gym

Sunday: Training, Rapids U16 and U18 DA Teams, 1:00pm, Field 8

NOTES:
*Thursday, January 28
Note that training on Thursday has been moved to 5:00pm for the U15-U18 teams.

**Saturday, January 30
Note that training will begin at 3:00pm for the U15-U18 teams on Saturday. Also, there will be a special photo shoot at the Pepsi Center for the Rapids U16 and U18 Development Academy teams beginning at 5:00pm, followed by free admission into the Colorado Mammoth game at 7:00pm. More information regarding this event will be sent out later this week.

Rapids Season Tickets – Academy Supporters
Your Colorado Rapids Opening Day is April 3rd vs. Chicago Fire! Be there with the rest of your team to celebrate the new Rapids Academy Section in 134. If you haven’t already purchased your specially priced Academy Season tickets for 2010, please contact our Academy Season Ticket Rep, Ossie Hamrick, at 303.727.3538.

-All training and match times listed are at Dick's Sporting Goods Park unless otherwise indicated.

Introducing the Bulldog Rapids Supporters Club

Want to find out about the newest Colorado Rapids Supporters Club?

Check out the Bulldog Supporters Group, who are launching their new club with a kickoff event this Saturday night!

Who are the Bulldog Supporters Club (or "The Bobbies", as they'll be known)? In their own words:

"We are an independent supporters group of the Colorado Rapids, with the goal of adding to the atmosphere at Dick’s Sporting goods Park, being a positive force for the Rapids and their fans, acting as ambassadors for the game and the team, fostering camaraderie among ourselves and all Rapids fans, and most of all vocally supporting our hometown club with the belief that we are capable of winning championships.

"We are welcoming new members that are interested in standing, chanting & singing, drinking pints before during and after the match, and having a good time with other like-minded football fanatics. We will bring a party-like atmosphere to the ground win or lose."

Membership in the club includes the best possible price for Rapids season tickets, a club shirt, scarf, invites to special events, discounted bus rides to and from the stadium, and "copious amounts of rip roaring good times"!

The club is having a special kickoff event at the British Bulldog (the club's home base) this Saturday night.

Dinner and drinks will be provided at the Bulldog, and Rapids coaches and players will be in attendance to address the group, answer questions and chat with supporters.

Quick stats about this Saturday's Bulldog Supporters kickoff party:

-Time is 6:00-8:30pm at The British Bulldog this Sat. Jan. 30
-VIP guests will include Rapids coaches Gary Smith and Steve Guppy and Rapids players Kosuke Kimura and Colin Clark
-Presentation by Gary Smith and Q&A with Gary and Steve
-Introduce/launch new Bulldog Supporters Group with details for 2010
-Enjoy happy hour specials
-Fans can sign up for the Bulldog Supporters Club on the spot!

Saturday's event is free to attend, so if you're interested (or just want to meet the Rapids coaches and players), come find out what it's all about at the introductory meeting.

If you are passionate about the Rapids or the global game, and want to stand and vocally support the Rapids in an over-21 environment this season with other like-minded fans at Dick's Sporting Goods Park, while also getting to attend great pre- and post-game events at the Bulldog, this just might be the club for you.

For further information about Saturday's event, or to find out more about joining The Bobbies or the club's board of directors (they are still looking for some volunteer posts such as Treasurer, VP, Communications Director, etc.), contact Jon Forget at BritishBulldogFC@gmail.com.

Scott Palguta, New Undercurrent Blogger

The Rapids Undercurrent welcomes our newest celebrity blogger, Rapids defender Scott Palguta to the Undercurrent contributing staff! Here's Scott's first entry, look for continuing entries from him here on out!

Greetings Rapids fans!

I thought I would briefly stop by ahead of this week’s start to the 2010 preseason to give you all an update.

I know it’s been a long off-season, so just in case I’ve escaped anyone’s memory, I’m Scott Palguta. That’s right, Palguta (#29, center back). NOT Ty Harden (#5, center back). While Ty and I are both defenders with All-American boy looks, we are, in fact, two entirely different people. You’d be surprised how often people mistake the two of us.

Anyways, I’ll be checking in regularly throughout the season to offer you a behind-the-scenes look at the club from a player’s perspective that’s (hopefully) informative and at least mildly entertaining.

Look for topics ranging from game recaps to road trips to.........some utterly useless facts. For instance: Do you ever wonder how many push-ups Matt Pickens can do in a minute? Are you eager to know if Nick LaBrocca cuts his hair more than once a year? Want to know what Omar reallllly thinks about Kosuke’s pet rabbit?

Visit us here at The Rapids Undercurrent periodically (and by periodically, I mean every single day; put a link on your desktop, add this site to your “favorites”, put it in your bookmark bar, whatever) to find answers to these and more intriguing questions.

That’s all for now. I’ll be back later this week to let you know who puked during the beep test. Just kidding....maybe...

-Scott

Rapids defender Scott Palguta blogs exclusively for The Rapids Undercurrent. Post questions or feedback for future columns below!

Rapids U14 Coach David Proctor Named CYS Boys Competitve Coach of the Year

Rapids Academy coach David Proctor was named Competitive Boys coach of the year Saturday evening at the annual Colorado Youth Soccer Awards Banquet.

Proctor (in the center in the back row of the attached photo, posed with his Rapids U14 team in 2009) earned the honor primarily for his work with the Rapids U14 team, which he coached during the 2008-09 season. One of the inaugural Academy teams, the Rapids U14s earned many team and individual honors under Proctor’s guidance.

As a team, they excelled in the Clyde Best international tournament last February against teams such as French club FC Sochaux and the Bermuda national teams. They also reached the State Cup semifinals before being eliminated on penalty kicks.

More importantly, two of the Rapids' youth team players players, Ricardo Perez and Geno Bigelow, earned their first call-ups to their respective US National Team player pools during the year under Proctor's guidance.

Proctor also coached the Rapids U17 team and played an important part in the Rapids' effots to help implement recreational leagues in both the Stapleton and Commerce City neighborhoods.

Although Proctor caught the headlines on the night, the Rapids Recreational Coaches of the year, Ben Valore-Caplan and Kathleen Cleveland, were also recognized by CYS.

The Rapids' first team were also well-represented at the event, with the club's Managing Director Jeff Plush, Technical Director Paul Bravo, Head Coach Gary Smith, Assistant Coach Steve Guppy and Academy Director Brian Crookham all in attendance.

For more information on the Colorado Rapids Soccer Academy, please call 303-727-3575 or send an email to RapidsAcademy@dsgpark.com.

Friday, January 22, 2010

Kosuke Kimura's Faves & Photos

Every month in 2010 fans can find a 2-page full color spread in Mile High Sports Magazine featuring a different Rapids player showcasing his unique fashion style, both on and off the field, as well as listings of his picks for Denver hotspots, workout rituals, and more.

This month it's Rapids defender Kosuke Kimura, talking about his training philosophy (check him out running the snowy steps at Dick's Sporting Goods Park!), as well as his favorites when it comes to personal attire and Denver's nightlife.

The Colorado Rapids have partnered with American Crew, Metroboom and Mile High Sports Magazine to highlight 12 different Rapids players in a new monthly photo spread titled "From Pitch to Play" in 2010.

Pick up the Kosuke Kimura issue in next month's February Mile High Sports Magazine, on newsstands next week.

USA v. Honduras Match Preview

US Soccer has revealed their match preview for tomorrow night's World Cup warm-up between the Yanks and Honduras.

Rapids striker Conor Casey, who led the USA to qualification for the 2010 World Cup in the last meeting between these nations with 2 goals on the night, is one of only three players in the US squad who saw the field in that match.

The last time the USA met Honduras was that memorable night in San Pedro Sula that sealed the USA’s place in the World Cup. Casey and Jonathan Bornstein were in the starting lineup for the famous 3-2 win on Oct. 10, 2009, while Benny Feilhaber came on as a second half sub replacing two-goal hero Casey.

The game will be live from the Home Depot Center in Carson, CA at 7:00pm MT on Fox Soccer Channel, and Colorado's dedicated soccer fans will be gathering at The British Bulldog tomorrow night to watch the match live.

Weekend Soccer TV Spotlight

Hey Rapids Fans! Check out the live soccer matches this weekend at any of the Colorado Rapids Official Bar Partners, where you can grab some food, a few drinks and watch the game with other like-minded soccer fans! Here is a list of the games happening this weekend:

Saturday Games

FA CUP 4th ROUND – Preston North End v Chelsea (Live on the Fox Soccer Channel @5:30am MT)

FA Cup: Reading v Burnley(Live on Setanta Sports @ 5:40 am MT)

Bayern Munich vs. Werder Bremen (Live on ESPN360 @ 7:25 am MT)

FA Cup: Everton v Birmingham (Live on Setanta Sports @ 7:55 am MT)

Italy Serie A: Catania v Parma (Live on ESPN360 @ 10 am MT)

Germany Bundesliga: Dortmund v Hamburger (Live on ESPN 360 @ 10:25 am MT)

Mexico Primera Division: UANL v Guadalajara (live on Telemundo @ 6pm)

Mexico Primera Division: Atlas v Monterrey (Live on Telemundo @ 7:45 am)

FA CUP 4th ROUND - Tottenham v Leeds United (Live on Fox Soccer Channel @ 10pm MT)

ITALIAN SOCCER Juventus v Roma (Live on Fox Soccer Channel @ 12pm MT)

USA NATIONAL TEAM SOCCER MEN'S - USA v Honduras (Live on Fox Soccer Channel @ 7 pm ET)

Sunday Games

FA Cup: Stoke City v Arsenal(Live on Setanta Sports @ 6 am MT)

ITALIAN SOCCER Palermo v Fiorentina (Live on Fox Soccer Channel @ 7 am MT)

ITALIAN SOCCER Internazionale v AC Milan (Live on Fox Soccer Channel @ 12:30 pm MT)

FA Cup: Scunthorpe United v Manchester City(Live on Fox Soccer Channel @ 8:55 am MT)

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Where to Watch USA v. Honduras in Denver This Saturday

Looking for a place to watch Rapids striker Conor Casey and the rest of the US Men's National Team as they take on Honduras in a World Cup warm-up this Saturday?

Head on down to the Rapids' partner bar The British Bulldog.

Located at 20th & Stout Streets in LoDo, the Bulldog is one of the top soccer bars in Denver, and there's sure to be a lively crowd of USMNT supporters there in fine form.

Remember the last time the US faced Honduras? It was at the Bulldog when Casey knocked in 2 goals to send the US to the World Cup, that Conor's mom was in attendance, and was showered with chants from an adoring throng of Rapids fans.

Saturday's match will be televised live from The Home Depot Center on Fox Soccer Channel and TeleFutura.

See everyone there Saturday.

Rapids Youth Team Member Bakes Lifesize Gingerbread Diz

That's right, you read that title correctly.

From the files of "Rapids Superfans" comes this submission from Rapids Junior Academy Youth Soccer League player Diego Olin, who sent us a photo of the lifesize gingerbread cookie he forged in a likeness of Rapids sriker Facundo Diz.

Diego, who plays for the Rapids Junior Academy "Team Noonan" U8 team coached by Brian Vaught, spent what must have been a considerable amount of time constructing this confectionary creation in the form of Diz, his favorite player.

Thanks Diego for the submission, we only have one question for you: do you have a gigantic oven at home or what?

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Rapids "High School Classic Series" Returns in 2010

The Rapids announced today that the club will again sponsor their popular "High School Classic" series at Dick's Sporting Goods Park for 2010.

Through this partnership, high school soccer teams get the exclusive chance to play matches on the Rapids' world-class pitch inside the stadium in front of their fans.

The first girls matchup of 2010 will be Thursday, April 15 at 7pm as Lewis-Palmer HS from Monument take on the Spartans of Greeley West HS.

The second game of the series on Thursday, April 22nd will feature 2009 3A finalists Alexander Dawson HS taking on Denver Christian HS at 6:30pm.

The final match of the Spring Rapids High School Classic series will feature a local derby match as Fort Lupton HS take on Adams City HS on Monday, May 3 at 7pm.

Full story.

Boys' HS teams games will be announced as we get closer to the Fall season.

Rapids Youth Teams Weekly Schedule

This week's training schedule for the Rapids Youth Teams, courtesy of the Rapids Academy:

January 19 – January 24, 2010

Monday: Teams off

Tuesday: Training, Rapids U15-U18 Teams, 6:00pm, Fields 8 and 10
Indoor Training, Rapids U11-U12 Teams, 6:00pm, Adams City High School Gym
Indoor Training, Rapids U13-U14 Teams, 7:00pm, Adams City High School Gym

Wednesday: Training, Rapids U15-U18 Teams, 6:00pm, Fields 8 and 10

Thursday: Training, Rapids U15-U18 Teams, 6:00pm, Fields 8 and 10
Indoor Training, Rapids U11-U12 Teams, 6:00pm, Adams City High School Gym (Optional)
Indoor Training, Rapids U13-U14 Teams, 7:00pm, Adams City High School Gym (Optional)

Friday: Teams off

Saturday: Training, Rapids U15-U18 Teams, 1:00pm, Fields 8 and 10
Indoor Training, Rapids U11-U12 Teams, 10:00am, Adams City High School Gym
Indoor Training, Rapids U13-U14 Teams, 11:00am, Adams City High School Gym

Sunday: Training, Rapids U16 and U18 DA Teams, 1:00pm, Field 8

*Note for Rapids U11-U14 Teams: there was some discussion regarding a potential site change for indoor training, however this will not be the case. Indoor training will remain at ACHS.

**All training and match times listed are at Dick's Sporting Goods Park unless otherwise indicated.

Kickoff Time for 2010 Home Opener Set

The Rapids have revealed the kickoff time for the club's 2010 Opening Day.

Colorado will kick off at 2:00pm MT at Dick's Sporting Goods Park on April 3 in their first home game of the club's 15th season when they host the Chicago Fire.

This will be the first 2:00pm kickoff time for a Rapids Home Opener since 2007, when Colorado topped DC United 2-1 in the grand opening of Dick's Sporting Goods Park, the first ever win inside the club's magnificent new home stadium.

The Rapids will kick off at home this year after opening the season on the road at Chivas USA on March 28.

The league is still finalizing the remainder of the dates and times for the rest of the 2010 campaign; look for a full schedule in the coming weeks.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Rapids Post-Draft Update

Hi everyone,

what an exausting day. But lots of good news....the Rapids selected 4 new young players at today's SuperDraft...picks that head coach Gary Smith said "we are very delighted with."

Gary and Technical Director Paul Bravo recorded exclusive videos after the draft talking about the picks; watch them only on the club's Facebook page.

We also caught up with the only player that was in attendance at the draft; Andre Akpan. He seems like a really likeable guy with a great head on his shoulders; he should fit in great in the clubhouse. Check out our exclusive video with him on the Facebook page also and judge for yourself.

Lots of scrambling, deals, and hustling at the event, from PR directors to media members to the coaches and players.

Very fulfilling, and still lots of work to do.

By the way the fans in attendance were great...it's amazing what 100 fans together all singing in unison in a room can do to affect the atmosphere of the event, especially when there's another group across the way doing the same thing back to them.

Hope everyone liked all the social media updates!

thanks and until the next update..........

Technology of the Jabulani

You may have heard that MLS is switching the league's official match ball to the new adidas Jabulani for 2010.

This is the same ball that will be used in the 2010 World Cup, with a different design for MLS.

The Denver Post interviewed Rapids goalkeeper Preston Burpo and Rapids Head Coach Gary Smith to get their insights on the ball itself, and has posted a great article today talking about the technology of how the ball works. Read it online here.

Preston's comment on how the new technology makes it harder for 'keepers: "Really, how many people think about the goalkeeper when they design a new ball? I'm sure adidas is happy with the new ball and I'm sure it's geared toward more offense. Hey, I understand that."

Hello From the SuperDraft!

Hi fans, a quick update from everything that's been going down in Philadelphia.

The Rapids technical staff and several members of the club's front office are here in the City of Brotherly Love for the 2010 MLS SuperDraft.

For those who don't know, the league also has leaguewide departmental meetings for all clubs to attend in concurrence with the Draft (which also coincides itself with the annual NSCAA coaches convention).

The Rapids' front office staff arrived on Tuesday night, and checked into the Loews Philly hotel, home base for all the clubs.

MLS did a nice job branding the streets and signage all around the hotel with banners with SuperDraft logos...similar to what we did in Denver for the 2007 All Star Game.

Wednesday morning it was an early rise for all-day meetings.

The PR Directors of all the clubs met in one ballroom, and strategized on maximizing visibility during this World Cup year, PR for a new digital decade, blogging and new media, among other topics.

Meanwhile, all the clubs' Marketing directors had several meetings and presenters from Rocket Fuel (who the league has contracted to lead the imminent launch of the new leaguewide digital platform)....this high-powered new "digital ecosystem" will debut before the '10 season starts and give fans access to much more dynamic and interactive sites for each club....it will also mark the first time all MLS clubs are on the same league-wide website platform. Trust us when we say the new websites are going to be the most innovative, interactive, and truly the best in all of sports.

The Community Relations directors also had all-day meetings on Wednesday, focusing on new charitable outreach programs and intiatives for each club. Will we see some sort of league wide outreach from MLS on the Haiti disaster? We will see...

The Ticket Sales directors also all started arriving that day, as the league are holding sales meetings Thursday and Friday.

During the day Wednesday, coaches and technical staffs from all around the league started trickling in from the Combine in Florida.

Meals were quickly turned to working strategy sessions, and huddled together discussing strategy all night was the brain trust of Rapids Managing Director Jeff Plush, Technical Director Paul Bravo, Head Coach Gary Smith, Assistant Coaches Steve Guppy and David Kramer, VP of Finance Charlie Wright, and Brian Crookham and Brett Jacobs from the Rapids Academy.

Guppy and Kramer took time out to record some videos of the club's thoughts the night before the draft; watch them here.

Everyone from Ben Olsen (wearing brown high tops) to Bruce Arena to Rapids alum Chris Henderson were spotted in the hotel lobby bar, which quickly became the place to try and catch up on the latest news and transactions. Trade rumors were rampant, and with player agents, MLS execs, coaches and staffs all combining in the bar area, quickly there was a sea of humanity quivering with last minute offers, speculation, deals and side deals.

By 1am the bar area had mostly cleared as everyone wanted to be well rested for the SuperDraft.

Today everyone's heading over to the huge convention hall across the street...the setting is magnificent in a huge marble hall. Philly Union staffers are already on site marketing their inaugural season to attendees.

That's it for now....nobody here's even had the chance to grab a cheesesteak yet. Things are happening fast and furious now, but we'll try to post another update soon.

In the meantime, the best place to get all the immediate news on transactions and updates is the Rapids Twitter page.

Talk to everyone later, don't forget to tune into the draft today at noon MST on ESPN2.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Rapids Alumni Players Vermes, Trittschuh Paved Way for Americans Abroad

Good article on ESPN.com today by Jeff Carlisle about how former Rapids defensive players Peter Vermes and Steve Trittschuh broke new ground in the soccer world for American players by becoming some of the first Yanks to ever play for clubs in Europe.

Classic quote from Vermes about starting off for his Hungarian team: "I was taking away someone's livelihood if they signed me, so no one would pass me the ball," said Vermes, then a forward. "I had to go bump a guy on my team off the ball and steal it from him. Then I went on a dribbling spree and took a shot. After that, they started passing it to me."

Tritt on his experience in Prague: "At the beginning, there was a little bit [of resentment]. But I got into the team and contributed to it. Certain guys in training, they would go into you a little bit harder, but for the most part I was part of the team. I would go out with the guys after games, and after training, so they accepted me pretty well."

Read the entire article here.

Monday, January 11, 2010

Rapids Academy Youth Teams Weekly Schedule

Here's this week's training, meeting and match schedule for the Colorado Rapids youth teams:

For the week of January 11 – January 17, 2010:

Monday: Rapids Youth Teams off

Tuesday: Training, Rapids U15-U18 Teams, 6:00pm, Fields 8 and 10
Indoor Training, U11-U12 Teams, 6:00pm, Adams City High School Gym
Indoor Training, U13-U14 Teams, 7:00pm, Adams City High School Gym

Wednesday: Training, Rapids U15-U18 Teams, 6:00pm, Fields 8 and 10

Thursday: Training, Rapids U15-U18 Teams, 6:00pm, Fields 8 and 10
Indoor Training, U11-U12 Teams, 6:00pm, Adams City High School Gym (Optional)
Indoor Training, U13-U14 Teams, 7:00pm, Adams City High School Gym (Optional)

Friday: Rapids Youth Teams off

Saturday: Training, Rapids U15-U18 Teams, 1:00pm, Fields 8 and 10
Indoor Training, U11-U12 Teams, 10:00am, Adams City High School Gym
Indoor Training, U13-U14 Teams, 11:00am, Adams City High School Gym

Sunday: Training, Rapids U16 and U18 DA Teams, 1:00pm, Field 8

*All training sessions and matches take place at Dick's Sporting Goods Park unless otherwise noted.

Friday, January 8, 2010

Conor Casey Checks in From US Camp

Rapids striker Conor Casey took a quick second to update fans on his first day of training out at US National Team training camp in Carson, CA.

Casey reported in to the US Camp yesterday:

"Hi fans, here's a couple of updates from US camp. I actually just got into camp on Thursday.

My first morning we did some possession drills, and then opened up into a full field game for about twenty minutes. After that for the morning session, we then finished with some fitness training.

Later in the afternoon, we spent some time in the weight room.

As far as being back in camp, it's nice to be back on the field, and out here there's a big group of guys who are trying to prove themselves, so it makes for a real competitive atmosphere, which is great.

Thanks, and I'll talk to you guys later,"

-Conor

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Arsenal Match Postponed After Colorado-Like Weather

Rapids partner club Arsenal FC have rescheduled their match today vs. Bolton after London was hit with a storm bearing unusually heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.

From Arsenal's website:

"Despite making every effort to stage tonight's match against Bolton Wanderers, the sudden and unpredicted adverse change in weather conditions in the Highbury area has left us no choice but to postpone the fixture.

We apologise for any inconvenience this has caused and wish to state that this decision was not made lightly and supporters' safety and travel arrangements were major factors in our thinking.

The Club will announce the revised date for this match in due course and all tickets currently held will be valid for the rearranged fixture."

This Weekend's 2010 adidas MLS Combine Rosters & Match Schedule

In case you missed the info., here are the rosters of the players who will showcase their talents at the 2010 adidas MLS Player Combine starting at the end of this week, as well as the schedule of events.

The Rapids' technical staff will be in attendance scouting the Combine, which takes place from Friday, Jan. 8 - Tuesday, Jan. 12 at Central Broward Regional Park in Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Complete 2010 adidas MLS Combine Rosters:

Team Jabulani
Olukorede Aiyegbusi (North Carolina State University)
Kris Banghart (University of Denver)
Teal Bunbury (University of Akron)
Ben Clack (St. John's University)
Dilly Duka (Rutgers University)
David Estrada (University of California - Los Angeles)
Two-Boys Gumede (University of Alabama - Birmingham)
Brooks Haggerty (University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill)
Kyle Nakazawa (University of California - Los Angeles)
Mike Pezza (University of Connecticut)
Zack Schilawski (Wake Forest University)
Chris Schuler (Creighton University)
Toni Stahl (University of Connecticut)
Kevin Tangney (University of Maryland)
Collen Warner (University of Portland)
Adam Welch (Lehigh University)
Jason Yeisley (Penn State University)
Amobi Okugo (University of California - Los Angeles)
Coaches: Jorge Salcedo (University of California - Los Angeles) and Nathan Williams (Placer United Soccer Club)

Team Predator X
Andre Akpan (Harvard University)
Samuel Appiah (Boston University)
Chad Borak (California State University, Northridge)
Jovan Bubonja (University of Illinois - Chicago)
Conor Chinn (University of San Francisco)
Austin da Luz (Wake Forest University)
Phil Edginton (University of Louisville)
Mauro Fuzetti (University of Michigan)
Blair Gavin (University of Akron)
Nane Joseph (Old Dominion University)
John (Jack) McInerney (U-17 MNT)
Joseph (JT) Noone (Temple University)
Kwaku Nyamekye (Harvard University)
Tim Ream (St. Louis University)
Mike Seamon (Villanova University)
Seth Sinovic (Creighton University)
Michael Stephens (University of California - Los Angeles)
Corben Bone (Wake Forest University)
Coaches: Matthew Spear (Davidson College) and Brad Wylde (Charlotte Soccer Academy)

Team F50i
Nelson Becerra (St. John's University)
Ronnie Bouemboue (North Carolina State University)
Nick Cardenas (San Diego State University)
Justin Davis (University of New Mexico)
Irving Garcia (University of California - Irvine)
Martin Hedevag (University of California - Santa Barbara)
Zac Herold (U-17 MNT)
Sean Johnson (UCF)
Ross LaBauex (University of Virginia)
Tennant McVea (Loyola University Maryland)
Pascal Milien (University of Tampa)
John Moore (Stanford University)
Danny Mwanga (Oregon State University)
Conor O'Brien (Bucknell University)
Ofori Sarkodie (Indiana University)
David Walker (University of California - Santa Barbara)
Kwame Watson-Siriboe (University of Connecticut)
Andrew Wiedeman (University of California)
Drew Yates (University of Maryland)
Coaches: Bob Gray (Marshall University) and Larry Sunderland (Chicago Fire)

Team Condivo
Eric Alexander (Indiana University)
Tyler Barry (University of California)
Fred Braun (University of Louisville)
Bright Dike (University of Notre Dame)
Julien Edwards (Drake University)
Nick Elenz-Martin (Brown University)
Andrew Hoxie (College of William & Mary)
Steven Kinney (Elon University)
Isaac Kissi (University of Dayton)
Zach Loyd (University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill)
Justin Morrow (University of Notre Dame)
Ike Opara (Wake Forest University)
Brian Perk (University of California - Los Angeles)
Ryan Peterman (University of San Diego)
Tony Tchani (University of Virginia)
Michael Thomas (University of Notre Dame)
Steffen Vroom (Depaul University)
Othaniel Yanez (University of Louisville)
Coaches: Michael Noonan (Brown University) and Leigh Cowlishaw (Richmond Kickers)

MLS PLAYER COMBINE GAME SCHEDULE
All times eastern and schedule is subject to change. All games will be held on the Main Event Field

Saturday, January 9
2:30 PM Condivo vs. F50i
4:15 PM Predator X vs. Jabulani

Sunday, January 10
2:30 PM Predator X vs. Condivo
4:15PM F50i vs. Jabulani

Tuesday, January 12
9:30 AM Jabulani vs. Condivo
11:15 AM Predator X vs. F50i

Rapids Memories of Governor Ritter

Colorado Governor Bill Ritter has announced in a surprise move that he will not seek re-election next fall.

Since this is the last time it looks like we may get to use this photo, here's the Governor pictured with Rapids and MLS executives at the press conference announcing that the Colorado Rapids would host the 2007 MLS All-Star Game at Dick's Sporting Goods Park.

The photo is from January 25, 2007 just after the press conference, which was held on top floor of the Qwest building at 555 17th Street in downtown Denver.

From left to right: Rapids Managing Director Jeff Plush, KSE Executive VP Paul Andrews, Governor Ritter, and former MLS Deputy Commissioner (now Chief Executive of Rapids partner club Arsenal FC) Ivan Gazidis.

Ritter will hold a press conference today at 11am MT announcing his decision; watch it streamed live on Rapids media partner 9News.com.

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Colin Clark - Fashion Icon

The Colorado Rapids have partnered with American Crew, Metroboom and Mile High Sports Magazine to highlight 12 different Rapids players in a new monthly photo spread titled "From Pitch to Play" in 2010.

Starting this month, you can find a 2-page full color spread in Mile High Sports Magazine featuring a different Rapids player showcasing his unique fashion style, both on and off the field.

This month it's Rapids midfielder Colin Clark, talking about his workout rituals in the weight room, as well as his favorites when it comes to personal attire and Denver's nightlife.

Pick up the Colin Clark issue in this month's January Mile High Sports Magazine, on newsstands this week.

Pablo Mastroeni Named to Soccer America's US Team of the Decade

Ridge Mahoney has selected Rapids midfielder Pablo Mastroeni as one of his picks for the Soccer America US Men's National Team All-Decade Team.

From Mahoney's Pablo bio:

(Years played, total caps/caps 2000-09)
PABLO MASTROENI (2001-09, 65/65). Broke into the starting lineup at the 2002 World Cup less than a year after making his debut and having never appeared in a qualifier, Mastroeni featured regularly in central midfield throughout the decade and captained the team several times.

In selecting his All-Decade U.S. Men's Team, Mahoney included service to the national team with appearances in official competitions - Confederations Cup, Copa America, Concacaf Gold Cup and World Cup - taking priority.

Other Rapids Alumni players also on the list (as reserves) are Clint Mathis and Tony Sanneh.

For the full story, click here.

Monday, January 4, 2010

MLS Cup 2010 to Remain at Neutral Venue

MLS Insider today confirmed that the 2010 MLS Cup championship match will be played at a neutral location.

League officials had discussed the possibility of moving the final from a neutral venue to the home stadium of the higher-seeded team playing, but have decided to retain the current format for the upcoming season.

The site location for MLS Cup 2010 will be announced before the start of the '10 campaign.