Real Maryland FC partners with MLS team Colorado Rapids

Real Maryland FC has announced the 2nd year USL-2 profesional club has formed a stategic relationship with the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer. The partnership will allow cross-training of players, shared player scouting, mentoring of coaches, and exhibition matches. The Rapids play at the very highest level of soccer in America and have competed in the MLS since 1996.

The following deal specifics were listed in a press release put out by Real Maryland Thursday:

• Real Maryland FC will serve as a developmental training ground for higher-level endeavors.
• Real Maryland FC will act as a feeder club for talented players to the Colorado Rapids.
• Selected Real Maryland FC players will have the opportunity to go and compete with the Rapids.
• Selected Rapids players will have the opportunity to go and compete with Real Maryland FC.
• Colorado Rapids will come to play exhibition games at Real Maryland FC.
• Real Maryland FC coaches will have the opportunity to go to Colorado and ‘shadow’ their coaching staff.
• The two clubs will work in recommending players both ways.
• The Rapids and Real Maryland FC will exchange best practices.

Real Maryand feels the partnership offers enormous value in the development of players, especially young talent. By building this relationship, both teams hope to improve the quality of soccer in MLS, the USL and at the grassroots level of America.

Head Coach Anthony Hudson said, ‘We’re very pleased with this partnership. The state of the game in the MLS and USL is such that, this kind of support is vital in order to develop players and move forward as clubs. We’re looking forward to a positive relationship with the Rapids."

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the Colorado Rapids and Real Maryland FC, both clubs will benefit enormously, in a relationship based on the identification, recruitment and development of young players,” said Colorado Rapids Head Coach Gary Smith.

Real Maryland FC participates in the Second Division of the United Soccer Leagues. All 2009 Regular Season Home Games will be played at Lester Stadium at Richard Montgomery High School in Rockville, MD.