News and Notes

A couple of tidbits heading into the weekend:

• Tom McManus has apparently been released by the Rapids. It was reported on BigSoccer and appears to be confirmed by this article. McManus brought a great attitude and a deadly long-range shot but never was able to solidify himself as a starter. With the restrictions on international players we can't afford to spend significant money on an international bench player. That, combined with Gary Smith wanting to put together his own team, seems to have ended McManus' time in Colorado.

• According to this blog the Rapids will play the San Jose Earthquakes in a preaseason game on March 2nd at the Home Depot Center in LA. I'm sure we'll get a complete preseason schedule from the Rapids in the near future.

• New Rapids keeper Matt Pickens may get a chance in the nets in this weekends U.S. - Sweden game at the HDC. 6:30pm MST Saturday night on FOX Soccer Channel.

UPDATE: One more note is making the rounds. Real Maryland FC of USL-2 just annpunced that they've signed a partnership agreement with the Rapids. The agreement will aloow for the movement of players between the clubs and give Real Maryland's coaches a chance to learn from the Rapids. A good partnership for the Rapids, hopefully some of the younger players that won't make the new smaller roster will end up there and have a chnace to work their way back to MLS.