Categories: Sports & Recreation Spectator Sports

Chicago Fire

Author: Emily Capdevielle

The 2008 roster seems promising for another World Cup victory with forward Chad Barrett being the top scorer last season with a high of seven goals and two assists. Midfielder Cuauhtémoc Blanco, the Fire's first designated player, was named the Chicago/Honda Most Valuable Player, scoring a game-winning goal from 25 yards.

History

The Chicago Fire came on board as Chicago's MLS team in 1998, and is named after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.

The Fire prevailed in winning the MLS Cup against two-time champion D.C. United 2-0 in their first season. The win made MLS history for an expansion team to claim the MLS Cup during its inaugural season. The team was also victorious in winning the U.S. Open Cup that same year against Columbus. The Fire finished the season with a 20-12 record.

 The Chicago Fire's winning ways continued with victories in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Championship and MLS Central Division Championship in 2000; the MLS Central Division Championship again in 2001; and the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Championship, MLS Eastern Conference Championship and the MLS Supporters Shield in 2003.

A notable win in 2001 occurred when the Fire shut out defending champions Kansas City 7-0. The game claimed another spot in the MLS record books for being won by the largest point's margin in history.

Many Chicago Fire players have made their mark in MLS. Forward Jamar Beasley scored a goal 27 seconds into a match. Carlos Bocanegra was the MLS Defender of the Year in 2002 and 2003. Bocanegra was also named MLS Rookie of the Year in 2000 for his impressive performance before he signed with Fulham in 2004. In the same year, former forward Eric Wynalda became the first Chicago Fire alum to be elected to the National Soccer Hall of Fame.

Seating/Activities

The Chicago Fire has definitely made a name for itself throughout the years and many Fire aficionados have experienced seeing the players play their best at a number of different stadiums. The team has traveled back and forth from Soldier Field, to Cardinal Stadium in Naperville in 2002, back to Soldier Field in 2003 after renovations and then to their final destination in Toyota Park located in the Village of Bridgeview.

VIP seating is also an option for all Chicago Fire fans to comfortably enjoy the game with family or friends, enjoy varied dining options and a breathtaking view. The Event Suites, located on the permanent stage, provide the finest views to catch all the action of the game and are available for a variety of events. The Rooftop Deck provides one of the best views of the game as well and holds up to 100 guests.

Chicago Fire home games are packed full of festivities with "Firefest" starting an hour and a half before kickoff. People of all ages can enjoy the pre-game festival including face painters to show your Chicago Fire spirit, or go to the target shot and put your soccer skills to the test.

Dining/Nightlife

Chicago Fire fans are never disappointed as they can always watch the game. If not at the stadium, then at places like Villain's Bar and Grill; Small Bar; The Globe; and the Arrowhead American Grill. Viewing parties are given at away games at the Arrowhead American Grill with raffle tickets and "Fire-themed" menu items to enjoy free of charge while you cheer on the Fire.

With new Head Coach Denis Hamlett, Fire fans are optimistic with the team's current standing in the conference and hoping for a win all the way to the MLS Cup in their eleventh season.

Check out places of interest near Chicago Fire:

Chicago Bears Football
425 E. McFetridge Dr., Chicago, IL 60605

With the 2008 Bear's season coming up, Super Bowl XLII is on the minds of football aficionados everywhere. Come watch the Chicago Bears play at Soldier Field to support the team and to see your favorite players in action!