COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – The Colorado Rapids started the 2020 MLS campaign hot, earning six points from the opening two matches against D.C. United and Orlando City SC. But like the rest of MLS, their campaign came to a standstill following the league’s decision to suspend play due to COVID-19.
Rapids coach Robin Fraser reacted to the situation midweek, speaking with the Moser, Lombardi and Kane Show on Altitude Radio.
“My first reaction was: What?” Fraser said. “It really took a while for it to sink in. After the NBA suspended their season, I knew it was coming, though. At the end of the day, it makes perfect sense. As disappointed as we are to have the season be suspended, it’s obviously not a question that it had to be done. It was the right decision.”
In line with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Public Health Agency of Canada’s recommendations for containment of the COVID-19 virus, MLS has also instituted a training moratorium.
“For us and for the league, as you can imagine, every step has been based on what has happened around the country and what CDC is saying,” Fraser explained. “The league is updating us. The players are sitting and waiting, but our sports science department is working with them on their individual programs and things they can and have to do on their own to stay as ready as possible.”
Fraser also explained all players are in-market until further notice. Colorado has seven international players on its roster.
“It’s such a difficult and strange time,” Fraser said. “For the time being it’s stay here, do what you can to stay fit and wait to see what comes next for us.”