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Rapids’ Powers named MLS Rookie of the Year

DillonPowersGoal (Getty)

By DAN KARELL

When the Colorado Rapids started Dillon Powers in their 2013 season opener, they likely didn’t realize that it would be the first of 29 starts this year.

The Notre Dame product kept producing in the center of midfield, holding down the spot and helping lead the banged-up Rapids to the MLS playoffs. For his strong performance this season, Powers was named 2013 MLS Rookie of the Year in overwhelming fashion.

Powers, who was also named SBI MLS Rookie of the Year, beat out a strong group of fellow rookies, including Rapids teammate Deshorn Brown (second), Seattle Sounders right back DeAndre Yedlin (third), and Los Angeles Galaxy forward Gyasi Zardes (fourth). Powers accrued a weighted total of 93.12 after running away with the player vote, media vote, and coaches vote for the award.

The 22-year-old midfielder finished with 29 starts in 30 games, contributing five goals and six assists in his first professional season.

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What do you think of the selection? Who would you have voted for? Was there anyone who should have been included?

Share your thoughts below.

Comments

  1. Kudos to the Rapids staff for their excellent evaluation and the huevos to start a rookie. The midfield play of the rookie was better than good. I first noticed him when against the Galaxy he held his own and even exceeded the play of the Galaxy midfield.

    Let’s hope his play continue to improve, he gets the playing time he needs and avoids serious injuries. I think if he continues his upward movement, he may deserve a callup to the USMNT camp sometime after the WC when JK or his replacement will be looking at the under 23’s for he future.

    Reply
    • He’s a bit different type of a player. He’s a box to box mid that bursts forward with driving runs, not really all that similar to any mls players. I would maybe say he’s kind of like a Bradley or jones when they go forward with the ball. Not at that level but still a good player.

      Reply
    • MLS Rookie equivalent to Michael Bradley. Midfield general that goes box to box usually making simple yet efficient passes occasionally delivering something special … not on the same planet yet..

      Reply

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