casey-conorThe Colorado Rapids will be without a major contributor for the rest of the season, after Colin Clark, a staple of the team’s midfield line and a Fort Collins native, was injured in a training accident yesterday (via The Denver Post).

Clark had started in 16 games this year, racking up more than 1,400 minutes, during which he notched three goals and a career-high five assists, according to ColoradoRapids.com.

Meanwhile, Rapids forward Conor Casey was voted Major League Soccer’s Player of the Week for Week 21 of the 2009 season. Casey (pictured) was on fire in a recent game against Chivas USA, in which he scored three first-half goals to help his team earn a 4-0 victory, writes MLSnet.com. Casey had missed the previous two games due to injury and suspension, and the goals against Chivas USA were his first since May 23.

His impressive play has earned him time with the U.S. national team as they prepare to take on Mexico later today in a World Cup qualifier. The accolades aren’t anything new for Casey this year: The player-of-the-week award is the fourth of his career and the third this season. MLSnet.com recently reported that Rapids coach Gary Smith has the squad in the mix for a playoff spot, so hopefully Casey and the other Rapids can make up for the loss of Clark’s dynamic play.