[MLS SPOTLIGHT] The changes at the Colorado Rapids continue as Jeff Plush, the club's managing director, is leaving after almost five years.

In 2010, he helped guide the team to its first-ever MLS championship. The 2011 season was rockier as Plush clashed with head coach Gary Smith, who left the club following the season.
 
“Jeff has played an important role in so much of the Rapids’ recent success on and off the field,” said Jim Martin, Kroenke Sports & Entertainment's president and chief executive officer, in a statement. “Jeff has poured his heart and soul into the Rapids. We are indebted to him for his hard work and unrelenting dedication to the Colorado Rapids and Major League Soccer."

Plush joined the Rapids in January 2006 and a year later the club opened its new home, Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. He also worked on developing the Rapids' relationship with Arsenal, whose majority owner is KSE owner Stan Kroenke.

He previously worked for five years as an executive at KSE, the Rapids' parent sports organization, playing a key role in the launch of the Altitude Sports & Entertainment, its regional television network.

“The past six seasons with the Rapids have been a dream come true in many ways,” said Plush, who will serve as as a consultant to KSE. “I believe I have accomplished what I set out to accomplish; it’s time for me to explore the new opportunities in front of me. It’s been an honor to be a part of the incredible growth of Major League Soccer and to play a role in the Rapids’ first-ever championship. I would personally like to thank Rapids owner, Stan Kroenke, for giving me the opportunity to help lead this wonderful club. I wish the Rapids continued success. I will cherish the many friendships I have made in Denver and throughout the professional sports world over the past 11 years. I’m excited for the opportunities that lie ahead.”