COMMERCE CITY — While sporting rugby headgear, captain Pablo Mastroeni was juggling a soccer ball on the sideline at Wednesday’s practice.
For the first time since the team’s third game of the season in March, Mastroeni laced on cleats and stepped on the practice field with his team. But he didn’t participate in any drills or intense workouts.
The 35-year-old midfielder — whom the team will play Saturday — and played only the first two games of this season.
Coach Oscar Pareja said Mastroeni was there to lift morale with the Rapids in a .
“He has been the face of the franchise for many years,” Pareja said. “It’s an opportunity for the coaches to use his leadership as well and bring that leadership around the boys.”
Ros Dumlao, The Denver Post
