MLS Chicago Fire FC

Fire's Rolfe and Mapp invited to U.S. Camp

Published on March 15, 2007 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Chicago Fire FC News Release


BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. (March 15, 2007) - Forward Chris Rolfe and midfielder Justin Mapp of the Chicago Fire have been selected to participate in the U.S. Men's National Team Camp commencing March 18 at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla.

U.S. MNT Head Coach Bob Bradley has called upon 24 players, including 11 from Major League Soccer (MLS), as the U.S. prepares for friendlies against Ecuador and Guatemala. The United States encounters Ecuador on March 25 (12 p.m. ET) at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla., before facing Guatemala on March 28 (9 p.m. ET) at Pizza Hut Park in Frisco, Texas. ESPN2 and Galávision will broadcast both games.

Rolfe most recently trained with the Stars & Stripes in January and February. He made the starting lineup in victories against Denmark (Jan. 20) and Mexico (Feb. 7), earning his fifth and sixth "caps." Mapp started the year training with the U.S. squad and registered the game-winning assist versus the Danes. The 22-year-old Mississippi native has made two appearances with the senior national team.

"It's always a special honor for players who take part in the national team process," said Fire coach Dave Sarachan. "This opportunity affords Chris and Justin a great opportunity to play at a higher level and we should benefit from their fitness and experience when they return."

Rolfe and Mapp will be training on familiar grounds, as both took part in Fire preseason workouts at the IMG Academy in February. The Fire arrived in Norman, Okla., today to begin preparations for its Saturn Cup exhibition versus FC Dallas on Saturday.

In other team news ...

Bradley to speak at Kickoff Luncheon

U.S. Coach Bob Bradley will serve as keynote speaker for the Fireworks for Kids Foundation Season Kickoff Luncheon, to be held April 3 at the Hilton Chicago (11:00 a.m. CT). For more information, contact the FWFK Foundation at (708) 496-6740.

Limited seats left for L.A. Galaxy Game

Less than 5,000 seats remain for the Los Angeles Galaxy game (Oct. 21) at TOYOTA PARK - a match that is part of the Chicago Fire "5-pack" deal. Fans can get their first look at the Galaxy and David Beckham by purchasing a "5-pack," which also includes the home opener versus New England on April 7. The first 2,500 fans through the gates April 7 will receive free hot dogs. In addition, a post-game fireworks show is planned.

Event Calendar: Media Night - April 5

The Fire's annual Media Night Dinner is slated for April 5 (6:00-8:00 p.m.) at the Chicago Firehouse Restaurant on 1401 S. Michigan Ave. President/CEO John Guppy, coach Sarachan and select players will be in attendance. To R.S.V.P, contact Daniel Jankowski (djankowski@chicago-fire.com).




Major League Soccer Stories from March 15, 2007


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