MLS Chicago Fire FC

Governor Pat Quinn Proclaims April 5th Chicago Fire Soccer Day In Illinois

Published on April 5, 2009 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Chicago Fire FC News Release


CHICAGO, IL (April 5, 2009) - As the Chicago Fire get ready for an exciting home opener against the New York Red Bulls today at TOYOTA PARK at 2 p.m. in Bridgeview, Governor Pat Quinn honored the team's winning history and its fans by proclaiming April 5th Chicago Fire Soccer Day in Illinois.

The proclamation notes that over the last 11 years, the Chicago Fire has the most winning record of all major league teams in Chicago - making the playoffs in 10 of those 11 years, while winning five domestic championships during that time.

Last year, the Fire fell short of the Major League Soccer (MLS) championship final by one game. This year, the team is laser focused on bringing another MLS Cup Championship back to Chicago.

"We are very grateful that Governor Quinn, a fan who has personally enjoyed Fire games at TOYOTA PARK, has chosen to honor the club this year by naming today Chicago Fire Soccer Day in Illinois," said Dave Greeley, President of the Chicago Fire. "Our pledge to the Governor and all our fans is to put all of our energy and focus into making this the very best Chicago Fire season ever and to provide the best game experiences TOYOTA PARK has ever offered."

The Chicago Fire is proud to not only have a winning history, but to have made a significant contribution to its communities and youth. Chicago Fire players participate in well over 200 community and charity-based events each year. The Chicago Fire Foundation has also donated more than $1.2 million to Chicagoland area organizations and charities benefiting kids and youth.

In the proclamation, Governor Quinn recognized the club's commitment to the community and public service by proclaiming today Chicago Fire Soccer day, "...in recognition of the Fire's contributions to our state's communities and economy, and offer my best wishes for a winning season."

ABOUT CHICAGO FIRE SOCCER

Chicago Fire Soccer was founded on October 8, 1997 as a Major League Soccer expansion team. The Fire won the MLS Cup in its inaugural season in 1998 and was crowned the champion of U.S. Soccer's national tournament, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, in 1998, 2000, 2003 and 2006. In June 2006, the Fire moved into its world-class home of TOYOTA PARK, located in Bridgeview, IL, located just 15 minutes from downtown Chicago off of I-55 and I-294. The Fire will host the New York Red Bulls for their home opener on April 5 at TOYOTA PARK. For more information about tickets, click the TICKETS link on the club's official website, www.chicago-fire.com.

ABOUT TOYOTA PARK

Located 15 minutes from downtown Chicago and minutes from Midway airport off of I-55 on Harlem Avenue, TOYOTA PARK is the Midwest's preeminent outdoor live entertainment and sporting facility. Opened in 2006, TOYOTA PARK not only serves as the home of the Chicago Fire, but also hosts a variety of sporting events, special events and concerts by national and international artists. In 2009, artists ranging from Jimmy Buffett to Phish will perform live at TOYOTA PARK.

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