COLORADO RAPIDS CLUB GUIDE
History, Stadium, Players, and More!
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Colorado Rapids
The Colorado Rapids are an American professional soccer club based in the Denver metropolitan area. The Rapids compete in Major League Soccer (MLS) as a member of the Western Conference.
Colorado Rapids History
The Colorado Rapids are a professional soccer club based in the Denver metropolitan area and have been a part of Major League Soccer (MLS) since its inception. The team was one of the ten charter clubs of MLS, beginning play in 1996. The early years of the franchise were marked by fluctuating success on the pitch and struggles to establish a strong fan base. Initially, the Rapids played their home games at Mile High Stadium before moving to Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City in 2007, a stadium specifically built for soccer and offering a more intimate and engaging fan experience.
The early years of the Colorado Rapids were a time of building and adjustment, as is common with new teams in any sport. In their inaugural season, the Rapids finished with the lowest points in the Western Conference but quickly turned things around by reaching the MLS Cup final in 1997, although they were defeated by D.C. United. This early success helped to build a foundation and establish a fan base, but the team struggled to maintain consistent success in the following years. Despite the challenges, the Rapids developed a reputation for being a tough, competitive team.
The early 2000s were a period of transition and rebuilding for the Colorado Rapids. The team saw numerous player changes and several coaching changes as they sought a winning formula. Despite these efforts, success was limited, and the team often found itself outside of playoff contention. However, this period also saw the emergence of key players who would become vital to the team’s future success, and the construction of their own soccer-specific stadium was a significant step forward for the club, signaling a commitment to long-term growth and success.
A turning point for the Colorado Rapids came in the 2010 season when they won their first MLS Cup. Under the guidance of coach Gary Smith and led by players such as Conor Casey and Omar Cummings, the team adopted a strong defensive strategy paired with a counter-attacking style. This approach proved successful as the Rapids finished fifth in the Western Conference but surged through the playoffs to win the championship, defeating FC Dallas 2-1 in the final. This victory marked a high point in the team’s history and provided a significant boost to the club’s profile and confidence.
Following their MLS Cup win, the Colorado Rapids experienced a period of inconsistency. The subsequent seasons were marked by fluctuations in performance, changes in the coaching staff, and roster overhauls. Despite making several playoff appearances, the team struggled to replicate the success of the 2010 season. This era was characterized by a search for a new identity and attempts to establish a consistent playing style and philosophy within the club.
In recent years, the Colorado Rapids have focused on building a strong, cohesive team and fostering young talent, emphasizing a sustainable model for success. This approach has seen the club become more competitive in the MLS, with a notable return to the playoffs and solid performances in regular seasons. The development of a strong academy system and investment in player development have been central to their strategy, aiming to create a pipeline of talent for the first team.
The Colorado Rapids continue to be an evolving and ambitious club within Major League Soccer. With a focus on youth development, community engagement, and on-field success, the Rapids are working towards establishing themselves as a consistent force in the league. The club’s history, marked by ups and downs, reflects the growth and development of soccer in the United States, and the Colorado Rapids remain a key part of the sport’s landscape in the country.
Colorado Rapids Youth Development System
The Colorado Rapids Youth Development System provides a complete structure that serves every type of player.
From fostering grassroots interest in the game through camps and developmental soccer to providing the highest level of training for the aspiring professional, the Rapids Soccer Academy is dedicated to growing the game and the individuals who participate in it.
For questions about the Development Academy Teams please contact us at academytryouts@coloradorapids.com. to be part of our academy data base please complete our 2018-19 Tryout Interest Form.
Recreational and Competitive teams and camps for boys and girls ages 4-18 are managed by Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club (CRYSC). Questions about these programs can be answered by CRYSC directly at info@rapidsyouthsoccer.org.
Colorado Rapids Alliance: adidas
On June 9, 2009, the Colorado Rapids launched the Rapids adidas Alliance to create a working relationship between existing youth soccer clubs that will benefit soccer development through shared resources.
Each Alliance Club uses a form of the methods and curriculum that are used in the Rapids Academy. In addition, Rapids staff spend multiple weeks annually on the ground in partner markets in order to assist with the education of players, coaces and parents. Rapids adidas Alliance clubs will also have exclusive access to on-field and in-stadium events events with the Colorado Rapids.
To learn more about the Colorado Rapids Alliance program, please click here.
Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club
Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club (CRYSC) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Rapids Youth Soccer is Colorado’s premier youth soccer experience and the only club in Colorado to offer opportunities from three-years-old to professional, from beginner to Major League Soccer.
CRYSC offers youth soccer programs of all levels to thousands of children year-round in and around the Front Range. With satellite leagues across Colorado, we are confident we can provide your child a fun and enriching place to play soccer.
| Rapids Fort Collins | Fort Collins, CO 80525 | Locations: Fort Collins | Windsor | Greeley | Timnath | Serverance | Wellington | Laporte | Johnstown | Berthoud | Cheyenne | Laramie |
| Rapids North | Westminister, CO 80234 | Locations: Arvada | Boulder | Brighton | Broomfield | Denver | Longmont | Louisville | Northglenn | Thornton | Westminister |
| Rapids Central | Aurora, CO 80010 | Locations: Denver | Aurora | Commerce City | Glendale | Green Valley | Lakewood | Northfield | Stapleton | Wheat Ridge |
| Rapids South | Aurora, CO 80010 | Locations: Centennial | Aurora | Cherry Hills | Denver | Englewood | Golden | Greenwood Village | Highlands Ranch | Lakewood | Littleton | Lone Tree | Parker |
| Rapids Castle Rock | Castle Rock, CO 80109 | Locations: Castle Rock | Castle Pines | Highland Ranch | Larkspur | Lone Tree | Monument | Parker| Colorado Springs | Elizabeth | Franktown |
To find soccer camps at the youth soccer club, please click here.
To find soccer tournaments at the youth soccer club, please click here.
Colorado Rapids Development Academy
In August of 2007 the Rapids Soccer Academy was accepted as a charter member of US Soccer’s Development Academy, a nationwide youth development initiative, organized by the U.S. Soccer Federation, created to enhance the development of the country’s top players through high technical standards and a focus on meaningful competition.
Formed in accordance with Major League Soccer’s 2006 Homegrown Player Initiative, our goal is to create a program for each player that will allow him to reach his full potential, whatever that may be. For the majority of our players, college soccer will be the pinnacle of their careers, but a select few will have the ability to play beyond that level.
Major League Soccer allows clubs to create a clear path from amateur soccer to the professional league while retaining the rights to the players that they help develop. The Academy’s top players in each age group will be identified as Homegrown Players after spending 12 months in the program. A Homegrown Player who is talented enough to play in MLS will now have the ability to sign a Generation Adidas contract for his hometown club and not be placed in the MLS SuperDraft.
In February 2013 the Rapids announced that the Development Academy teams would be fully funded by the club. The Rapids’ program includes Development Academy teams at the U-12, U-13, U-14, U-15, U-17 and U-19 levels, with all administrative, coaching, facilities, equipment, travel and other costs covered by the club.
Colorado Rapids Academy Tryouts
2020-21 Evaluation Opportunities
- U13 and U14 — We will evaluate players born in 2006 or later at the Colorado Rapids Academy ID Sessions. Due to the current suspension of all Academy activities due to COVID -19 virus, we are not setting specific dates for the ID sessions at this time. We will be reaching out with information once specific times & dates are confirmed. We will also invite prospective players to Academy training sessions as appropriate. Current U12 (2008), U13 (2007) and U14 (2006) players in other Development Academy programs (Real Colorado, Pride SC, FC Boulder, Colorado Rush) are not eligible to participate in evaluation sessions until May 1.
- U15, U17 and U19 — We will invite prospective players to June training sessions as appropriate. Current U15 (2005), U17 and U19 players in other Development Academy programs (Real Colorado) are not eligible to participate in the June training sessions and may not have on field evaluations until after July 1. The final evaluation opportunity for this age group will be at the Colorado Rapids Academy ID sessions. Due to the current suspension of all Academy activities due to COVID -19 virus, we are not setting specific dates for the ID sessions at this time. We will be reaching out with information once specific times & dates are confirmed.
Players from outside the Colorado Rapids Homegrown Territory (States of Colorado and New Mexico) are subject to MLS homegrown territory restrictions.
Also, please note that players ages 10 to 18 must abide by FIFA international transfer regulations so we are not accepting international tryout applications.
To learn more about trying out for the Colorado Rapids academy, please click here.
What costs are associated with the program?
Players do not pay to participate in the Colorado Rapids Development Academy. All coaching, facilities, registration, travel, meals and most equipment is provided for the players who participate in the Rapids Development Academy. Players must provide their own transportation to practice. Players are expected to purchase a season ticket at a discounted rate (TBD)
How many players are selected to the program?
A pool of approximately 118 players that will be assigned to the U12, U13,
U14, U15, U17 and U19 Development Academy teams as full-time players. There is no minimum or maximum number of players that will be selected in each birth year.
For a complete list of FAQs, please click here.
Colorado Rapids USL
To learn more about the Colorado Rapids USL affiliate team, please click here.
Colorado Rapids Recruitment Trials
At the time of this writing, there is no official publishing’s on Colorado Rapids trials. Please come back at a later date while we monitor this club or click here to visit their official news section.
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Colorado Rapids Colors & Badge
The Colorado Rapids’ team colors are primarily burgundy and sky blue, complemented with silver accents. These colors are prominently featured in the team’s kits and fan merchandise, symbolizing the club’s identity and heritage.
The Colorado Rapids’ badge is designed to reflect the team’s identity and regional pride. The primary element of the badge is a stylized “C,” which stands for Colorado, encased in a mountain-shaped design, paying homage to the Rocky Mountains, a prominent and iconic feature of the Colorado landscape. The mountain motif within the badge is intended to represent strength, stability, and the natural beauty of the state. The club’s name, “Colorado Rapids,” is displayed within the badge to complete the design, with “Colorado” positioned above the mountain shape and “Rapids” below, emphasizing the team’s connection to its home state and the dynamic nature of soccer.
Colorado Rapids Kit
The Colorado Rapids’ kit typically reflects the team’s official colors of burgundy and sky blue. The home kit is predominantly burgundy, often paired with burgundy shorts and socks, which represent the club’s primary color and identity. The away kit usually contrasts with the home design, featuring more of the sky blue, white, or even silver to differentiate it from the home attire. These colors are chosen to symbolize various aspects of the Colorado landscape and the club’s heritage.
The kits also usually feature the team’s badge prominently on the chest, showcasing the club’s identity. Sponsor logos, as well as the MLS badge, are also displayed on the kits according to league and sponsorship agreements. Over the years, the designs of the kits may vary with changes in patterns, shades, and sponsor logos, but they consistently adhere to the club’s color scheme and identity.
The Rapids, like all MLS teams, release new kits periodically, often rotating between updating their home and away kits each season. This keeps the team’s look fresh and allows for the incorporation of new design elements or themes while maintaining the club’s traditional colors and symbols.
Colorado Rapids Stadium
The Colorado Rapids play their home games at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, commonly referred to as DSG Park. The stadium is located in Commerce City, Colorado, which is part of the Denver metropolitan area. Opened in 2007, the stadium was specifically designed for soccer and has become a fortress for the Rapids and a center for soccer in the region.
Dick’s Sporting Goods Park boasts a seating capacity of around 18,000 for soccer matches, creating an intimate yet vibrant atmosphere for fans. The design of the stadium ensures that spectators have excellent views of the action from all seats, contributing to the exciting match-day experience. The stadium’s natural grass playing surface is widely regarded as one of the best in Major League Soccer, providing optimal conditions for high-quality soccer.
Beyond the main stadium, the complex includes a sprawling 24-field, fully-lit professional soccer complex that is one of the largest and most state-of-the-art in the nation. This facility is used not only by the Rapids for training but also by youth soccer tournaments, concerts, and various community events, making it a hub of soccer activity and community engagement in the region.
DSG Park also features modern amenities for fans, including a range of food and beverage options, merchandise stores, and interactive fan zones. The stadium is designed with a focus on family-friendly entertainment, ensuring that match days provide a fun and enjoyable experience for fans of all ages.
The location and design of Dick’s Sporting Goods Park reflect the Colorado Rapids’ commitment to providing a top-tier venue for soccer and fostering the growth of the sport in the local community. The stadium’s backdrop, featuring the stunning Rocky Mountains, symbolizes the club’s deep-rooted connection to the Colorado landscape and culture.
Colorado Rapids Club Culture
The club culture of the Colorado Rapids is deeply influenced by the team’s history, regional pride, and the diverse community of fans who support the club. Like many soccer teams, the Rapids’ culture is built around a passionate fan base, local traditions, and a strong sense of community. Here are key aspects that define the culture of the Colorado Rapids:
- Fan Base and Supporters Groups: The Rapids have a dedicated and passionate fan base, with several supporters’ groups contributing to the vibrant match-day atmosphere. The most notable among these is the Centennial 38, a group that combines earlier supporters’ clubs. They are known for their colorful displays, chants, and constant support during matches, creating an engaging and lively environment at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.
- Community Engagement: The Colorado Rapids place a strong emphasis on community involvement and engagement. The club and its players are active in local community initiatives, including charity events, youth soccer programs, and educational projects. This involvement helps to strengthen the bond between the team and its supporters, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
- Regional Pride: The club culture embodies a strong sense of regional pride, with the team and fans drawing inspiration from Colorado’s natural beauty, outdoor lifestyle, and the state’s adventurous spirit. The presence of the Rocky Mountains and the area’s rich history are reflected in the team’s identity and values, promoting resilience, determination, and a pioneering spirit.
- Inclusivity: The Rapids are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all fans, regardless of their background. This commitment to inclusivity helps to foster a diverse fan base and promotes a positive and supportive atmosphere within the stadium and the larger community.
- Traditions and Rivalries: Traditions play a significant role in the club’s culture, including pre-game rituals, fan chants, and celebrations. The Rapids also partake in several regional rivalries, most notably with Real Salt Lake, against whom they compete for the Rocky Mountain Cup, a fan-established trophy. These rivalries add intensity and excitement to matches, strengthening the sense of community and belonging among fans.
- Development and Sustainability: The Rapids have a strong focus on developing local talent and investing in youth development, aiming to sustain long-term success both on and off the field. This emphasis on growth and development resonates with the community-oriented nature of the club, appealing to fans who value the cultivation of local athletes and the team’s future prospects.
Overall, the culture of the Colorado Rapids is characterized by a strong sense of community, regional pride, and a commitment to inclusivity and development. These elements combine to create a unique and vibrant club culture that engages fans, supports local initiatives, and fosters a deep connection between the team and its supporters.
Colorado Rapids Home City
The Colorado Rapids are associated with the Denver metropolitan area, although their actual home stadium, Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, is located in the nearby suburb of Commerce City, Colorado. Denver, as the home city in the broader sense, is a significant cultural, economic, and sporting center in the United States, and it offers a dynamic backdrop for the Rapids and their fans.
Denver, known as the Mile High City due to its elevation of one mile above sea level, is the capital of Colorado and one of the most populous cities in the U.S. It’s a city known for its vibrant outdoor lifestyle, given its proximity to the Rocky Mountains and numerous parks and recreational areas, which aligns well with the active soccer community supporting the Rapids. This love for the outdoors is reflected in the active, health-conscious lifestyle of its residents.
The city’s cultural landscape is rich and diverse, with a wide range of museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues, contributing to a strong sense of community and identity among its inhabitants. This cultural diversity is mirrored in the fan base of the Colorado Rapids, where fans from various backgrounds come together to support their team.
Economically, Denver is a thriving city with a strong job market, anchored by industries such as technology, aerospace, and renewable energy, as well as tourism, due to its scenic views and outdoor activities. This economic stability supports the community and the fan base, allowing for robust local support for the team.
In terms of sports, Denver is a passionate city with a rich sporting tradition, home to several major professional teams besides the Rapids, including the Denver Broncos (NFL), Denver Nuggets (NBA), Colorado Rockies (MLB), and Colorado Avalanche (NHL). This passion for sports creates a dynamic and enthusiastic atmosphere around the Colorado Rapids, as the city’s residents are well-versed and engaged in sporting events and team support.
The presence of the Colorado Rapids in the Denver metropolitan area contributes to the city’s diverse sporting culture and offers a unique entertainment option for its residents. The connection between the team and the city is strong, with the community’s support playing a crucial role in the club’s identity and culture. Denver’s picturesque setting, combined with its vibrant community and sporting passion, makes it an ideal home for the Colorado Rapids.
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