Real Colorado & Colorado Rapids: Two Rivals Join Forces
Real Colorado and Colorado Rapids Youth have teamed up to join the ECNL Boys Texas Conference, making history as the first clubs to partner up this way.
TL;DR:
Why This Move Is a Game-Changer
These two Denver soccer rivals decided to work together instead of competing for the same goals. They wanted 10-month seasons for their best players – something only Real Colorado had before now.
The move lets both clubs train during Colorado’s perfect fall weather when fields are empty and conditions are ideal.
“Right now, we lose our players during the best training period of the year, July to November,” explained Danny Bills, Chief Sporting Director for Colorado Rapids Youth. “That’s when there’s the fewest weather issues and the most field space available.”
What Players Get from This Deal
Players will now compete against the toughest teams in Texas – home to some of America’s best youth soccer clubs. Both teams already proved they belong by reaching the Dallas Cup championship (though they lost to Solar SC).
Each club will keep some teams in the Mountain Conference for players who want traditional schedules that work with high school soccer. This means every player finds the right fit for their goals.
Behind-the-Scenes Work
Making this happen took months of planning. Jason Kutney, ECNL Boys Commissioner, worked hard to find a solution everyone liked. In my opinion, this kind of cooperation shows what youth sports should be about – putting players first.
“It was a long process, but everyone saw the bigger picture,” Kutney said. The clubs explored many options before deciding the Texas Conference was their best choice.
A Healthy Rivalry Gets Stronger
These clubs respect each other but still want to win every game. Mike Garnhart, Real Colorado Academy Director, loves the challenge: “You have to develop your kids better, you have to provide more and better opportunities. We love competition and being able to play the best every single game.”
I believe this partnership will push both programs to improve, creating better soccer throughout Colorado. When rivals work together while staying competitive, everyone wins!
Breaking New Ground
This partnership is the first of its kind in ECNL history. Two clubs with similar dreams found a creative solution that helps them both grow. They’ll travel together to Texas games, making trips easier while raising Colorado soccer’s reputation nationwide.
Written By: Beau Bridges
Beau is the founder of SoccerNovo, dedicated to helping players and parents navigate the youth soccer landscape. As a former youth coach and soccer parent, he shares insights on player development, recruiting, and the ever-evolving soccer scene in the U.S.
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