The 2013 schedule has been released. http://www.coloradorapids.com/schedule Ending the year with two games against Vancouver could be very interesting or very anti-climatic depending on how the teams are doing.
RSL twice in the first 6 games. Games 3 and 6. If either team wins both then the RMC will be determined in April.
One Wednesday and one Thursday home game, plus the 4th of July (which is a Thursday). The rest are Saturday home games. 4pm kickoff for the home opener. Time and TV still to be announced for the March 16th game @FSL. I'm guessing the delay on the NHL schedule is preventing Altitude from committing to that game. 5 games on NBC Sports, 2 on UniMas (formally Univision). The game in KC on Aug. 31st is the only other one not to have TV scheduled yet.
Woohoo, only two midweek home games! July 4 against the Red Bulls, and then August 21 against New England. Also after that New England game, the team doesn't play for 2 1/2 weeks until September 7 against LA. I'm guessing we might. Maybe we will see a friendly somewhere in that gap? Might be too late for European teams.
Rapids site shows Chivas game on May 25, but MLS shows it as April 25. May 25 is a saturday, so let's hope it is that one.
Rapids and Chivas show the game in May, league shows it in April. I'm guessing the May date is accurate.
3 of first 4 games on the road, could be rough. Home opener v. Conor Casey . Then next 3 of 4 are at home. Looks pretty balanced overall, and I like the minimal midweek games, and really July 4th doesn't count, since it's a holiday.
There's a lot of alternating between home & away stretches. There will be some nice stretches when we're at home for 3 straight games, or 3 out of 4. -------------- H A 3/2 - 3/23 ---1 3 3/30 - 4/20 -3 1 4/28 - 5/18 --1 3 5/25 - 6/15 --3 0 6/19 - 6/30 --0 3 7/4 - 8/3 ----4 1 8/11 - end ----5 6 Maybe we can finally have a good July, though it's NYRB, DCU, @SEA, LA, RSL. Murderer's row.
Now the league and Rapids site both show it as May 25. I guess it would be good to wait a little while before planning around any of these dates.
Like the move to afternoon home games in March, April and late October. Doesn't guarantee better weather, but avoids the still winter-like night temps.
I have already been talking some trash with some of my Seattle buddies. Like seeing them come here twice. May have to think about a road trip to either Seattle or Portland, I would love to see the excitement they seem to draw. Anyone know if it is relatively safe?? (Note that I grew up in LA and would never go to see the SF Giants in SF wearing a LA cap for fear of being beaten or stabbed).
I went to the Portland game last year. Had now problems while in my Rapids kit around town. I was welcomed and respected. Only some light hearted "ribbing" while in the stadium.... of course it helped that they beat us.
Been to Portland each of the last two years, never had any problems. Seattle I'd expect similar (though as my hometown I may just feel more comfortable).
I love the name "Dank Derby", even though I don't personally partake. We must collaborate between the SG's (even though I wish nothing but misfortune for Seattle).
Portland is about the safest road trip you can do along with Kansas City. Timbers fans are very friendly to us and we have a good relationship with them. They're a lot of fun when they come visit as well. Seattle not so much. You have to be careful about where are are before and after the game. Specifically, the Pioneer Square area outside the stadium really isn't safe if you're not in Seattle colors. Some Sounders fans can be friendly, but the majority are not. If it's your first ever away trip and you don't know anyone locally, I would not recommend Seattle. Portland would be a much better experience for you.
For whats its worth, you're fine in most MLS cities as long as you use common sense and don't draw attention to yourself. The only place where it really isn't safe to be by yourself or in small numbers is Salt Lake, but you won't have any problems there as long as you are traveling with our main group.
I lived in Oregon for 7 years (southern Oregon and 4 years at UO), so I agree on Portland. I could probably still fit in if I stay out of the sun for a few months and wear my grungiest clothes. I would LOVE to see a cascadia cup game and just soak in the atmosphere! rod.
Seasonal start time variations make sense to maximize sun & warmth for the shoulder season matches and the evening cool for the summer matches. To fully maximize warmth 2:00pm kickoffs may be more ideal!
Last season's fist game, my CO flag was stolen from my back as I exited the game. Second game I had many colorful slurs questioning my sexualty and heritage hurled my way. Not a very friendly atmosphere as an away fan. My saving grace is that I wear Rave Green every other game of the season, and the season ticket holders in my section stand up for me. If large numbers do decide to come up to Seattle, I'd be willing to open up my house so people don't have to pay for a hotel. Could comfortably sleep 8-12 (two guest rooms and a popup in the backyard), and more space if people want couches/camping pads on the floor. Would also be willing to host a pre-game BBQ. I'd love to see more burgundy up here this year. Good time to visit as well, the rain normally recedes on July 5th. PM me if you are interested in details.