Colorado Rapids to Retire Marcelo Balboa’s No. 17 Jersey in MLS 30th Season Celebration
After 30 seasons in the MLS, the Colorado Rapids have announced that they will retire Marcelo Balboa’s No. 17 jersey, making him only the second player in club history to receive this honor. The ceremony will take place on Aug. 16 during a home game against Atlanta United, as part of the league’s 30th season celebration.
Balboa, a club legend and original defender for the Rapids, played for the team for six of his seven years in the MLS before being traded to the New York MetroStars in 2002. During his time with the Rapids, he scored 24 goals and 23 assists in 151 appearances, earning a spot in the Colorado Sports and U.S. Soccer Halls of Fame. Balboa also led the Rapids to their first MLS Cup in 1997.
Apart from his contributions on the field, Balboa became the first American to surpass 100 caps for the U.S. men’s national team and appeared in three World Cups. Following his retirement, he continued to be involved with the Rapids as a color analyst for Altitude TV and a Rapids Academy coach.
In addition to the jersey retirement, the Rapids will host a fireworks show at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park after the Aug. 16 match. Throughout the season, the club will also feature commemorative art outside the stadium and release a coffee-table book in partnership with Glory Studio.
Rapids President Pádraig Smith expressed excitement for the milestone celebration, highlighting the club’s growth and looking forward to the future. Fans can expect more announcements regarding giveaways, limited-edition gear, and special events throughout the 2025 season.
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