Brian Crookham, Director of Player Personnel and General Manager for Rapids 2, has been named the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro Executive of the Year. This marks his first time winning the award after being nominated twice in his four seasons leading Rapids 2.
“I am honored to represent the club with this award,” said Crookham. “The commitment from ownership and our senior leadership to the player development space, paired with our coaching and support staff’s execution in the player development process, makes this recognition possible. We look forward to continuing to leverage the excellent opportunities that have been provided to us through our participation in MLS NEXT Pro.”
Crookham received this recognition following a successful season for Rapids 2. The team won the Western Conference and made its first appearance in the MLS NEXT Pro Cup. Colorado finished third in their conference during the regular season with 51 points before advancing through playoff matches against Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 and The Town FC. They secured their first trophy since joining MLS NEXT Pro by defeating Minnesota United FC 2 at DICK’S Sporting Goods Park but lost in a penalty shootout after a tied final match.
“We’re delighted to see Brian honored as the MLS NEXT Pro Executive of the Year,” said Colorado Rapids President Pádraig Smith. “His dedication to shaping a competitive team and, even more importantly, fostering an environment where our players and staff can thrive, reflects everything we value as a club. The impact of his work over the past few years makes him a truly deserving winner of this award.”
Rapids 2 has shown strong performance since entering MLS NEXT Pro in its inaugural season in 2022. In their second year, they led both their conference and league during regular play with a record-setting 66 points across 28 matches—the highest total for any team over a regular season campaign so far.
Since joining Colorado Rapids in 2007, Crookham has contributed significantly to youth development within the organization. He helped establish an integrated pathway allowing young players opportunities to progress toward playing for Colorado’s First Team via programs like MLS Homegrown Player.
Crookham also plays an important role each year during the club’s participation in the MLS SuperDraft alongside scouting staff. During this most recent season, players selected by Rapids through that draft contributed over 8,000 minutes on field at the MLS NEXT Pro level.
