Rapids sign M Wayne Frederick to extension

May 16, 2026; Sandy, Utah, USA; Colorado Rapids midfielder Wayne Frederick (13) and Real Salt Lake midfielder Noel Caliskan (92) battle for the ball during the first half at America First Field. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images Colorado Rapids midfielder Wayne Frederick signed a multiyear contract through the 2029-30 season with a club option for 2030-31, the club announced Friday. Frederick, 22, is enjoying a career season, setting personal bests in goals (two), assists (five), starts (10), appearances (13) and minutes (928). In his third season, the Maryland native scored his first MLS goal March 21. Over parts of three seasons, Frederick has played in 23 games (12 starts). "Wayne has a strong combination of qualities that make him an excellent fit for our game model," Rapids president Padraig Smith said. "He is an elite athlete with the physical capacity to impact the game in every phase, and his versatility gives us flexibility across the midfield. Just as importantly, his mentality and character embody the standards we want at this club. We're excited to see him continue to flourish with the Rapids." Frederick, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft out of Duke, debuted on April 24, 2024, and has drawn praise from head coach Matt Wells for his overall performance on and off the pitch. "Wayne has been a great example of a player that has fully embraced every aspect of the environment we've created since arriving in January," Wells said. "His mentality and fearlessness caught my eye very early on during preseason. He's had some really strong performances this season, but the exciting part for us as a coaching staff is how much room for growth we still see in him." --Field Level Media