The Colorado Rapids have their new head coach, as they announced on Sunday they have hired Robin Fraser to the position.
The 52-year-old, the club's ninth permanent head coach in club history, has extensive experience in the playing and coaching ranks of MLS. He has served as an assistant coach at Toronto FC since 2015, where he was on staff for their historic domestic treble in 2017. The Rapids sent Toronto $75,000 in General Allocation Money for the right to sign Fraser as their head coach.
In Colorado, he will replace Conor Casey, who has served as interim head coach since the start of May.
“We are excited to welcome Robin Fraser to our club,” said Rapids EVP and general manager Padraig Smith in a statement. “He brings with him a wealth of experience, strong tactical acumen and a deep knowledge of what it takes to be successful in MLS. He is hugely respected by players and coaches around the league and has earned this reputation over the course of a distinguished career as a player and coach. We are thrilled to have someone of Robin’s caliber join our team at this time as we plan for what will be one of the most important offseasons in the club’s history.”
In addition to Toronto FC, Fraser has served as an assistant coach at Real Salt Lake (2007-2010) and New York Red Bulls (2013-2014). He also has MLS head coaching experience, leading Chivas USA in 2011-2012.
Fraser's hiring is a homecoming of sorts, as he played for the Rapids from 2001-2003, in addition to stints playing for the LA Galaxy (1996-2000) and Columbus Crew SC (2004-2005). His individual accolades include two MLS Defender of the Year recognitions, five MLS Best XI selections, and five MLS All-Star selections, and he was also a US international.
The Rapids look set to miss the Audi 2019 MLS Cup Playoffs, which would make three consecutive seasons without a postseason berth. With Fraser, they're looking to add to their trophy cabinet, which features their 2010 MLS Cup title.
“I’m thrilled to be back with the Colorado Rapids and eager to lead this club forward into what I believe can be a successful period in the club’s history,” said Fraser. “I consider Colorado to be home, I’ve played here, coached here and I know the soccer community in this state. I’m committed to the club’s vision and I’m excited to work with this strong group of players and especially the nucleus of young, talented players we have at the club.”
