[COLORADO RAPIDS] The Colorado Rapids' top competitive youth teams, which participate in the Development Academy, will be fully funded by the MLS club starting in the 2013-14 season.

The Rapids’ program will also expand to include a Development Academy team at the U-14 level in addition to the existing U-16 and U-18 sides.

“This is a major step for our Academy, and further demonstrates the commitment from Kroenke Sports & Entertainment to developing talent here in Colorado,” said Rapids President Tim Hinchey. “The top quality coaching and facilities that these young players will have at their disposal will help them develop as players ready for the college game and professional ranks, and provide us with Homegrown Players that can be the future of our club.”
 
Three Rapids youth players have been signed to the first team as homegrown players: Davy Armstrong, Dillon Serna and Shane O’Neill, who was called up to the U.S. U-20 national team for Concacaf qualifying.

Colorado is one of the most competitive areas in the country with academy programs at Colorado Rush and Colorado Real National in addition to the Rapids' program.