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Woods, a 36-year-old Englishman, has distinguished himself among the world's most solid netminders during 43 appearances for England's National Team and in more than 450 games in the English Premier League, where he played with four teams since 1978. He has spent the past five seasons with Sheffield Wednesday, where he was a teammate of U.S. National Team star and current MLS D.C. United captain John Harkes.
Woods was a member of England's World Cup Team in 1986 and 1990. The 6-foot-2, 200 lb. goalkeeper also played in the Scottish Premier League for five seasons, carrying the Glasgow Rangers to four championships and four league cup titles as well as a runner-up finish in the F.A. Cup. While at Glasgow he set a record that still stands of 13 consecutive shutouts.
"I have watched Chris play for many years and have always been impressed," said Rapids Coach Bob Houghton. "He's a great technical goalkeeper with brilliant instincts. His addition, I believe, makes our defense truly the league's best."
"Getting a chance to work with Bobby and help promote soccer in America is a great honor," said Woods, who has a home in Orlando, "I already am impressed with the Rapids -- we have a team that can challenge for the MLS title every year."
Woods, who also played in the English First Division for four seasons with Norwich, will get his first taste of MLS action on Saturday when the Rapids play host to Carlos Valderrama and the Tampa Bay Mutiny at Mile High Stadium.
"I can hardly wait," Woods said. "Even in England there is a buzz about MLS, and I am very excited to be a part of it."
To make room for Woods, the Colorado Rapids placed Morrocan goalkeeper Khalil Azmi on waivers this morning. Woods signed a two-year deal with the Rapids.