MLS Colorado Rapids

Rapids Acquire 2002 World Cup Standout Striker Clint Mathis

Published on December 12, 2005 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Colorado Rapids News Release


DENVER, CO (Monday, December 12, 2005)- The Colorado Rapids acquired today forward Clint Mathis from Real Salt Lake in exchange for forward Jeff Cunningham.

"Clint is undeniably one of the best players the United States produced in what I like to call the ‘First MLS Generation'," said Colorado Rapids Head Coach Fernando Clavijo. "His passion and fiery personality, which are clearly tangible both on and off the field, will be a great addition to the Rapids."

Mathis, who is regarded as one of the most talented and talked-about U.S. forwards and midfielders, joins the Black & Blue after playing one season for Real Salt Lake. During his stay in Utah, Mathis scored three goals and recorded four assists while playing in 27 games for the expansion club.

"We are thrilled with the addition of Clint to our team." said Colorado Rapids General Manager and Chief Operating Officer, Charlie Wright. "We were able to secure for our fans one of the most recognized personalities in American soccer that will bring his exciting style of play on to the field for our club. This transaction also gives us the financial flexibility to accomplish our other planned off-season player additions."

Known worldwide for his unique individuality and style, Mathis made a name for himself at the international level while playing for the U.S. National Team in the 2002 World Cup. While sporting a mohawk, the Conyers, Georgia native scored the lone goal in the United States' 1-1 tie against co-hosts South Korea, helping his team advance to the quarterfinals of the most-watched sports tournament in the world.

The dynamic striker has played seven seasons in Major League Soccer, performing for teams such as Los Angeles, the MetroStars, and Real Salt Lake, and accumulating a total of 51 goals scored and 42 assists dished out during his 136 starts in 159 games played.

In 2004 Mathis migrated to Europe, where he played in the German Bundesliga for Hannover 96. His overseas career began with a bang as he scored four goals in his first five games. Mathis made four appearances for the senior US National Team squad in the 2004/05 season before returning to the United States.

At the National Team level, Mathis has amassed 46 caps while starting 30 games for Bruce Arena's team that include playing in World Cup Qualifying matches as well as in the 2002 World Cup. His most recent appearance with the U.S. National Team took place in March of 2005.

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