The Colorado Rapids and UCHealth have formed a deal that sees the Colorado-based health system become the teams’ official jersey sponsor.
With the partnership spanning until the end of the 2029 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, UCHealth is launching Ready. Set. CO. – a new, health-focused initiative aiming to help restore Colorado as the ‘healthiest state in the nation’.
“The Rapids are committed to being the heartbeat of sport in Colorado so we couldn’t be more excited to partner with a local organisation like UCHealth who is not only invested in the well-being of our community, but who has also shown a long-standing support of Colorado sports,” said Pádraig Smith, Colorado Rapids Executive VP and General Manager.
“This announcement marks a significant day for our club, as the partnership will provide a
foundation for both of our organisations to drive healthy living initiatives with our fans and our community. We look forward to having UCHealth be a part of the Rapids family for many years to come.”
Furthermore, UCHealth will aim to extend its reach to a broad and diverse audience through joint community events, health and wellness offerings, education and content development.
To help extend the mission of this partnership, UCHealth’s logo will be displayed ‘prominently’ on the front of all Rapids First Team match kits and training tops, as well as all Rapids MLS NEXT (Academy) team kits and the kits of select Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club teams.
“The Rapids’ jersey symbolises the two organisations’ mutual commitment to encouraging fans, club partners and the Colorado community to join the team and commit to living their best, Colorado healthy lives,” the Western Conference team said in a statement.
“For years, Colorado has been recognised as the home to some of the fittest, strongest and healthiest populations in the country,” added Manny Rodriguez, UCHealth’s Chief Marketing, Experience and Customer Officer.
“The past few years have taken a toll on all of us, both physically and mentally, and it’s time for Colorado to reclaim its status as the healthiest state in the nation. Ready. Set. CO. is intended to motivate, challenge and inspire all Coloradans to commit to making healthy lifestyle choices.”
