Starting today, just like we do during the season with the MLS Team of the Week, we're recognizing our Community Team of the Week!
We'll kick off the series by getting to know four doctors, Dr. Josh Metzl, Dr. Morteza Khodaee, Dr. James Genuario and Dr. Rachel Frank, who spend their days as crucial members of our healthcare system here in Colorado, helping all of us fight COVID-19 so we can return to a sense of normalcy. This quartet are also tasked with keeping the first team safe and healthy, especially during the current MLS season suspension.
Get to know our Community Team of the Week below & send us your nominees here!
ColoradoRapids.com: What’s one piece of advice you’d like to give to Rapids fans during this time?
Dr. Metzl: As a physician, I believe that it is very important to exercise several times per week, especially during this pandemic. Exercise will help to boost your immune system, lift your spirit and will help keep you as healthy as possible so we can all cheer for the Rapids again as soon as it is safe!
ColoradoRapids.com: What’s one silver lining you’ve found during this time?
Dr. Metzl: The silver lining of working from home has certainly been the increased time we can spend as a family. Even though we are all eager to get back to work and school, I will always cherish this extra opportunity to be together.
ColoradoRapids.com: What’s one piece of advice you’d like to give to Rapids fans during this time?
Dr. Khodaee: We understand how hard it is to follow the social distancing guidelines but think about how many lives you can save! You are indeed a hero!
ColoradoRapids.com: What’s one silver lining you’ve found during this time?
Dr. Khodaee: Going through the COVID-19 pandemic makes all of us stronger and smarter. I believe we all take “personal hygiene” more seriously, which can help fighting against other viruses such as influenza!
ColoradoRapids.com: What’s one piece of advice you’d like to give to Rapids fans during this time?
Dr. Genuario: The beautiful game of soccer has success and failures based on the interactions of the players creating a team that is greater than the sum of its parts. Through the history of the game, the greatest teams have worked together seamlessly with each individual contributing to the success of the whole. This year’s Colorado Rapids team has started out undefeated by each member’s unselfish play. Just like the Rapids altruistic play, as we face the epidemic of COVID-19, each member of our community must approach each day with a selfless attitude. Together, we will be victories over this virus.
ColoradoRapids.com: What’s one silver lining you’ve found during this time?
Dr. Genuario: There has been a re-centering of societal values with a shift from the constant race of what is next to an emphasis on the present. We are spending time in the moment cultivating relationships with our children and loved ones that are sometime neglected for the frenetic pace of our lives. Although we all are facing financial hardships from the effect of the virus and quarantine, we are all richer for the times spent together.
ColoradoRapids.com: What’s one piece of advice you’d like to give to Rapids fans during this time?
Dr. Frank: There is nothing more important than social distancing, hand-washing, and adhering to the stay-at-home order. We all need to do our part, and be part of the solution. Let’s do our part now, so we can enjoy spending time together later this summer and fall!
ColoradoRapids.com: What’s one silver lining you’ve found during this time?
Dr. Frank: Truly incredible to see how so many different people have made efforts to help others, step outside their comfort zone, and be positive. The silver lining is that we all are likely to better appreciate the little things a bit more in the future. And also – the earth is much healthier!
