Denver Post file
Former Colorado coach Gary Smith, seen in this 2011 file photo, watched as the Rapids played to a 2-2 tie with Chivas USA in a MLS soccer game at Dick’s Sporting Goods Stadium in Commerce City, Saturday night, Aug. 20, 2011. 
Getting your player ready...
Former Colorado Rapids coach Gary Smith is taking a job with the Colorado Rush Soccer club, .
Smith, 48, will take over as the academy director for the Rush, beginning Feb. 1.
“We’re honored to be able to bring Gary to Colorado Rush and have him share his extensive knowledge with our players in the Rush Academy men’s and women’s programs,” the club said in a post announcing the hire.
Smith in 2010 led Colorado to its only MLS Cup victory in franchise history. He was 39-31-35 in three plus seasons at the helm for the Rapids between 2008-2011. His contract was not renewed after the 2011 season as .
Smith coached Stevenage of English second division from 2012-13 and the Atlanta Silverbacks of the North American Soccer League from 2014-16.
![Paxten Aaronson #10 of the Colorado Rapids] controls the ball in the second half during a match at Dick's Sporting Goods Park on August 19, 2026 in Commerce City, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)](/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/GettyImages-2291591540.jpg?w=525 "Colorado Rapids v Los Angeles Football Club")
