HARRISON, N.J. (December 15, 2017) – Mike Grella was selected by the Colorado Rapids in Stage One of the MLS Re-entry draft on Friday afternoon. Colorado subsequently traded Grella to Columbus Crew SC in exchange for a second-round pick in the 2019 MLS SuperDraft.
The Glen Cove, New York native played 73 MLS games for the Red Bulls, scoring 16 goals and adding 13 assists. He made eight appearances in 2017 before having knee surgery that ended his season.
“On behalf of everyone at the New York Red Bulls, I’d like to thank Mike for his service to the club,” said Sporting Director Denis Hamlett. “He had many great moments here and was an excellent guy in our locker room. We wish Mike and his family all the best as he continues his career.”
Grella had a number of noteworthy accomplishments with New York, including scoring the club’s 1,000th goal across all competitions against Columbus in March of 2015. Later that season, Grella scored the fastest goal in MLS History, finding the back of the net against Philadelphia just seven seconds into a match at Red Bull Arena in October. Grella also represented the club in the MLS Cup Playoffs, CONCACAF Champions League and the U.S. Open Cup.
“Mike is a fierce competitor and the type of guy who gives everything for his teammates,” said Red Bulls Head Coach Jesse Marsch. “He played a big role for us the past few years and helped establish who we are as a team. I’m grateful to have had Mike as a player and wish him and his family nothing but the best.”
