TOP HIGH SCHOOL SOCCER PLAYERS IN COLORADO TO BE SHOWCASED IN ALL-STAR GAMES PRIOR TO RAPIDS' FOURTH OF JULY GAME

DENVER (Friday, July 3, 1998) - The top high school soccer players in the state will be showcased Saturday afternoon at Mile High Stadium at the Colorado High School Soccer Coaches Association girls and boys All-Star Games prior to the Rapids' game against the MetroStars. The girls' all-star game will kickoff at 2:15, with the boys to follow at 4:00.

The third-annual event is sponsored by the Colorado Rapids and Holly's Soccer 2000, which will provide the uniforms for both games. All players from both games will be honored at half-time of the Rapids' Major League Soccer game against the NY/NJ MetroStars. In addition, the winners of the MVP award from each game will receive an autographed Colorado Rapids soccer ball.

The Rapids game against the MetroStars kicks off at 7:00 p.m., but will be immediately preceded by a ceremony honoring the Super Bowl Champion Denver Broncos. Broncos punter Tom Rouen will be on hand to kick out the ceremonial first ball.

Immediately following the game, fans will be treated to Colorado's biggest fireworks display.

Rapids general manager Dan Counce said the game is becoming a very important annual event, and the Rapids are glad to be a part of the event.

"So much of our support comes from the youth soccer market, and especially the high schools. Hosting these games is a perfect chance for the Rapids to express our appreciation, while at the same time presenting the top soccer players at the high school level in the entire state," said Counce.