Rapids schedule exhibition match in Memphis in September... why?

The Colorado Rapids announced today that they would be going to Memphis to play the Tulsa Roughnecks FC on Saturday, September 1st. The Roughnecks are 1-9-8 with just 12 points. USL Memphis was awarded a franchise earlier this year in January and their inaugural season will be 2019, so they will be unveiling their new logo during the exhibition match.

To recap: The Rapids are going to Memphis on a bye week to play a USL side in a Minor League Baseball stadium and it’s not even the hometown team because the hometown team doesn’t have a team yet.

Why?

“Rapids Goalkeeper Tim Howard, a Memphis resident and USL Memphis advisor since its unveiling in January, will lead the Rapids in goal for this special exhibition match.” [Read the full press release here.]

“I’m incredibly excited to play a soccer match in my adopted hometown of Memphis, Tennessee,” said Howard. “We’re looking forward to a terrific reception and a raucous environment for all involved.”

I get that there is no chance for the playoffs, but this is still a little confusing to me. It sounds an awful lot like the entire team is heading across the country to play a game that doesn’t mean anything to support the interests of one player. Or maybe it’s just a friendly during a bye week and a good opportunity for younger players to get some minutes.

I’ve asked the Rapids for a comment and will add more info. if/when I get it.