COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – The Colorado Rapids announced today the club has loaned forward Sydney Wathuta to Orange County SC of the USL Championship for the remainder of the 2026 season. As part of the agreement, the Rapids retain the right to recall Wathuta at any time.
“This loan will give Sydney an opportunity to continue getting quality minutes at a high level,” said Colorado Rapids Sporting Director Fran Taylor. “With the MLS NEXT Pro season coming to a close, we think this is a great opportunity for him to continue his development in a competitive professional environment through the end of the season.”
Wathuta, 22, is in his second season with the Rapids organization and his first on a First Team contract after signing with the club in February. This season, the forward has made 20 appearances for Rapids 2 in MLS NEXT Pro, recording two goals and two assists across 1,648 minutes.
Wathuta initially joined Rapids 2 ahead of the 2025 season after the Rapids selected him 16th overall in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft out of the University of Vermont. During his first professional season, he made 18 regular-season appearances, recording six goals and four assists. He added two assists in four MLS NEXT Pro Playoff appearances, helping Rapids 2 reach the Western Conference Final.
The Canadian forward also gained First Team experience during the 2025 season, making his MLS debut against Atlanta United and featuring in Leagues Cup. Wathuta played the full 90 minutes against Cruz Azul in Leagues Cup, recording an assist on the Rapids’ opening goal.
Prior to turning professional, Wathuta spent two seasons at the University of Vermont, helping the Catamounts capture the 2024 NCAA Division I National Championship. Over his collegiate career, he made 39 appearances with 34 starts, recording three goals and 15 assists. His 14 assists in 2024 set a single-season program record and ranked second nationally in NCAA Division I, earning him America East First Team All-Conference honors and America East Midfielder of the Year.
TRANSACTION: Colorado Rapids loan forward Sydney Wathuta to USL Championship side Orange County SC for the remainder of the 2026 season. The Rapids retain the right to recall the player at any time.
