The Colorado Rapids Under-16 and Under-18 Development Academy teams wrapped up their weekend in Florida at the U.S. Soccer Development Academy Winter Showcase with a 2-1-3 (W-L-T) combined record.
Both teams played a total of three matches from November 30 to December 4 at the Premier Sports Complex in Lakewood Ranch, Fla., against top opponents from the Development Academy while offering college coaches and scouts the opportunity to see talented young players from around the country.
The U-16s impressed observers with a 3-0 victory against the LA Galaxy driven by a brace from Daniel Jimenez. They also defeated New Jersey's Players Development Academy, 2-1, and closed out the Showcase with a 1-1 tie against the San Jose Earthquakes.
“I think the U-16s really used this a coming out party for them,” said Academy Director Brian Crookham. “They were very focused and the team has progressed tremendously in the time they’ve been together this fall. I think it was a great way to end the 2012 segment and it gives them a great platform to go forward in 2013.”
The U-18s faced a challenge going into the showcase, drawing the top two teams in the Development Academy in the San Jose Earthquakes and Players Development Academy (tied for first with 6-1-0 (W-L-T) records). The 18s came out with three defeats, including a 2-0 loss to the LA Galaxy.
Both the U-16 and U-18 teams will now continue their winter break in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy season, returning to action on Saturday, March 2 against Texans SC Houston in Texas.
Launched in 2007, the U.S. Soccer Development Academy is a growing partnership between U.S. Soccer and the top youth clubs around the country to provide the best youth players with an environment designed to foster a professional attitude and produce the next generation of National Team players.
