COMMERCE CITY, Colo. (Wednesday, November 6, 2013) – The Colorado Rapids announced on Wednesday that the club has re-signed midfielder Nathan Sturgis, who set career highs in games played and goals in 2013, to a new contract. Per league and team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“We were pleased with Nathan’s effort on both the defensive and attacking sides of the ball, and he made us a better team this season,” said Rapids Head Coach Oscar Pareja. “He was solid defensively playing in front of our back four, and also made intelligent runs into the box. We’re excited that he will return as we prepare our roster for next year.”

“Nathan did well to earn his opportunity this season, and took full advantage of his time on the field,” said Rapids Technical Director Paul Bravo. “He brings a great deal of experience for his age, and we’re very happy that he has signed a new contract with our club.”

"I want to thank the Colorado Rapids and Major League Soccer for extending my contract,” said Sturgis. “I am very grateful for the opportunities the Rapids organization has given me and the support the fans have shown me this year. I look forward to working hard to help the team be successful in 2014."

Sturgis, 26, broke into the Rapids’ starting lineup at the beginning of May and started all but two of Colorado’s final 25 regular season matches, as well as the playoff game. Having scored just one goal in seven MLS seasons prior to joining Colorado, he set a career-high with four in 2013, including the game-winner against New York on July 4 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. He finished the season having played a career best 25 games (23 starts), with four goals and an assist.

The midfielder originally joined MLS in 2006 as the 12th overall pick in the MLS SuperDraft, playing for the Galaxy before a midseason 2007 trade to Real Salt Lake. He was selected by Seattle in the Expansion Draft ahead of the 2009 campaign, playing two years for Seattle, followed by a year at Toronto FC and a season with Houston. In his eight-season MLS career, Sturgis has played 105 regular season matches (89 starts), scoring five goals and adding three assists. Sturgis also played in the youth ranks of the United States National Team, including the 2007 FIFA Under-20 World Cup.