Casey is “willing to bleed for club”
Interim coach has Colorado roots going back to Denver South
COMMERCE CITY» They used to sing his name at Dick’s Sporting Good Park. Now they hope to praise it.
The Rapids have a new coach — at least for the time being — and it’s Conor Casey. The renowned aggressive striker who possessed a mean touch playing for Colorado hopes to breathe some life into the Rapids.
Casey rejoined the Rapids as an assistant in January 2017 and was named interim head coach Wednesday after Anthony Hudson was fired.
Colorado is 0-7-2 this season with the fewest points (two) in Major League Soccer.
“Extremely proud,” Casey said. “I’ve been a part of this club since I was in high school. I know this club inside and out. I know its strengths and weaknesses. The incredible fan base is thirsty for success, and everyone involved with the club wants to get those feelings back. I’m now in the position to help with that.”
In 2010, Casey earned MVP honors as he helped lead the Rapids to their lone MLS Cup. In that season, he scored 13 goals as the Rapids powered past FC Dallas for the championship.
“He’s worked on his own coaching and philosophy,” Rapids executive vice president and general manager Pádraig Smith said. “There’s no doubt what he means to the club. He’s the leading scorer. He’s a genuine legend. He’s willing to bleed for this club. Nobody will come in with more commitment and drive than him.”
Smith made a lot of moves in the offseason to improve the Rapids’ attack, most of which have worked. Though the team has leaked goals on the other end, to the tune of a leagueworst 24 goals conceded, the aggressive style that the Rapids have aimed for is what Casey strives for.
“A lot of the things the club has said about being aggressive and forward thinking are things I believe in,” Casey said. “Throughout the season, there are always going to be changes. I would like us to progress and be more aggressive and forward thinking.”
A complete tactical overhaul may not come under Casey’s leadership, but he hopes to provide steady leadership by leaning on his expertise as being an elite player. That knowledge garnered, he believes, can be used to reach both the Rapids’ leaders and their youngsters.
“I know from being a player that players win games,” he said. “So I’ll be leaning on them. Whether they’re an elder statesman or younger, I’ll be relying on them.”
Casey played at Denver South High School and spent six seasons with the Rapids. His number No. 9 is retired by the club and he has represented the United States Men’s National Team 19 times.