A Burgundy Affair: Rapids Celebrate Players, Staff, Fans at Annual Awards Gala
October 2, 2022 – Major League Soccer (MLS) – Colorado Rapids News Release
The Colorado Rapids honored players, staff and fans alike at their annual end of season gala, A Burgundy Affair, on October 2nd. Here is a complete list of this season’s winners:
Academy Player of the Year presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods: Jack Sullivan
Jack Sullivan is a Rapids Academy product who currently competes with the club’s U-17 team as a midfielder. During the 2021-2022 Academy regular season, Sullivan appeared in 27 matches for a total of 2,122 minutes on the pitch. Sullivan also added five goals to his offensive statline throughout the season. His standout performances at the Academy level earned Sullivan his first professional opportunity with Rapids 2 on June 4 in the team’s match versus North Texas SC. Since then, Sullivan has played in 10 matches for Rapids 2, making one start for the team and recording 174 minutes of play.
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Rapids 2 Player of the Year presented by Direct Edge: Yosuke Hanya
Securing his place in the Rapids’ history books, midfielder Yosuke Hanya has been named the first-ever Rapids 2 Player of the Year. Hanya was a staple of the Rapids 2 attack this season, scoring the team’s first-ever goal in its inaugural MLS NEXT Pro season. The Japanese international led the team with 22 starts, adding four goals and four assists in his time on the pitch.
Defender of the Year presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods: Keegan Rosenberry
In 32 games played this year, Rosenberry’s impact on the consistency of the team cannot be understated. The defender’s talents and grit to keep the ball out of the net have accumulated in nine clean sheets for the Rapids, all while taking his chances in front of the goal too, scoring twice and creating two assists in 2022.
Fan Favorite presented by Ticketmaster: Gyasi Zardes
You voted and we listened. Zardes’ selection for Fan Favorite comes at no surprise to the Rapids faithful who saw the Designated Player splash onto the Colorado scene with his contributions in the final third. Since joining the Burgundy Boys in April, the striker has permanently made his mark on the club with nine goals and two assists, including his hat-trick performance against Minnesota United FC at home in a 4-3 decision.
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Humanitarian of the Year presented by Special Olympics: Diego Rubio
Rubio’s contributions to the soccer community aren’t just limited to between the lines. The striker is heavily involved with the Rapids Unified Team, never missing a game, and paid visits to teachers, schools, and local teams throughout the season, donating countless supplies, equipment and tickets to those in the Denver community. His attention to those who in his
Most Valuable Player presented by UCHealth: Diego Rubio
Rubio leads the team with 15 goals and 22 overall goal contributions heading into the final game of the season, breaking club records left and right. His move from the No. 9 spot into the attacking midfield has only increased his time on the ball and ability to create chances for his team. Not only does he get the job done on the pitch, but the Chilean holds himself to a higher standard in the locker room, putting on the captain’s arm band multiple times this year to lead the team to victory.
Players’ Player of the Year presented by Coca-Cola: Diego Rubio
Voted for by his teammates, Rubio’s presence in the locker room is just as valuable as his performance on the pitch. His positive attitude and leadership earned the attention of his fellow Burgundy Boys to win him a resounding majority vote.
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Young Player of the Year presented by Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club: Lucas Esteves
Awarded to the most impactful player under 24, Esteves’ honor as Young Player of the Year comes after the Brazilian notched a goal and three assists in the 2022 campaign. His nonstop drive to bring the Rapids’ game to the next level makes him the perfect fit for a young player’s role.
The Rapids wouldn’t be complete without its community. This year, the Burgundy Boys and Rapids front office gave back in every way they could to the Colorado community, donating equipment, visiting front line healthcare workers and teachers, and creating lasting memories for the youth of the game in Colorado.
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