The Colorado Rapids on Saturday announced the signing of 2017 first-round SuperDraft pick Sam Hamilton.

Hamilton, 21, was captain of the University of Denver Pioneers team that went to the NCAA College Cup last year.

The Rapids selected the 6-foot, 185-pound defensive midfielder No. 15 overall in January. Rapids sporting director Padraig Smith said Hamilton played well in preseason. Related Articles March 3, 2017 Rapids’ stout defense will be tested by New England’s dangerous attack

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“He gives us strong depth at central midfield,” Smith said in a news release announcing the signing. “We look forward to watching him continue to develop as a player and to him making a positive and impactful contribution to our club in the coming years.”

Hamilton’s contract covers the 2017 season and includes team options each year through 2020. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“Sam is technically very good on the ball and can cover a lot of ground in the center of the field,” Rapids coach Pablo Mastroeni said in a news release. “His work ethic, positive attitude and mentality since his arrival has earned him the right to be a member of this club.”

Colorado takes on the New England Revolution on Saturday at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in the season opener.