Pablo Mastroeni Becomes First Colorado Rapids Player To Have Jersey Number Retired
Jul 6, 2021, 12:59 PM
Pablo Mastroeni #25 of the Colorado Rapids controls the ball against the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena on May 25, 2011 in Harrison, New Jersey. The game ended in a 2-2 draw. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
(Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Do not expect to see the number 25 on the back of any Colorado Rapids players in the future. Real Salt Lake assistant coach and former Rapids midfielder received the ultimate honor over the weekend when his former club retired the number that he became synonymous with.
Mastroeni is a club legend in Colorado, his presence was felt both figuratively and literally on the pitch for 11 years where he accumulated 225 games for the Rapids, helping guide them to achieve their first and only MLS Cup in 2010 when he was the captain of the club.
What a special, special night to honor a #Rapids96 legend. 🐐 pic.twitter.com/AmwyGoy22M
— Colorado Rapids (@ColoradoRapids) July 5, 2021
Mastroeni’s number 25 jersey is the first number to be retired in Rapids history.
In 1998, Mastroeni was the final player drafted to the Miami Fusion and was subsequently inaugurated with the number 25. That number was present on the back of his jersey for his entire career.
“I think when you look back and you think about all of the experiences that you had wearing that number and all of the places that it took you, I think it is only fitting that it ends up here at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park with the fans that were really behind us for all of those years,” Mastroeni said.
An incredible tribute for an incredible player and person. 👏
Last night, we surprised Pablo with messages from his family and former teammates. #Pablo25 pic.twitter.com/v3IxNk9hDr
— Colorado Rapids (@ColoradoRapids) July 5, 2021
Following a fruitful playing career, Mastroeni then embarked on a coaching career that began at the helm of his beloved Rapids. He managed the Rapids for four years starting with an interim tag in January of 2014 before being introduced as the eighth head coach in Rapids history on March 8, 2014.
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During his four-year stint, he won 31.62% of his 136 games in charge.
Mastroeni is currently a member of the Real Salt Lake coaching staff and acts as manager Freddy Juarez’s first assistant. He was hired prior to the 2021 season and has made an immediate impact on the culture and well-being of the club.
