Dear Fire fans:
We have just passed the halfway point of our season and it is time for our Chicago Fire to make its move toward the top of the division. At this point we are not satisfied with the results that have kept us in the middle of the very tight Eastern Conference race. Although we had a good start to the year we have been the team that others have gone after and we haven't quite put a string of performances together like we have hoped.
The challenge is to build consistency despite losing a couple of key players from last season, an injury that has kept Jesse Marsch out until later this month, World Cup qualifiers that have taken Damani Ralph, Andy Williams and Chris Armas away from us for parts of the season and the recent departure of DaMarcus Beasley.
I feel we are beginning to show signs of real team improvement. I feel very good about the quality of our team and each player's willingness to work together to get us back on the right track. Having four of our players represent the Fire at this year's All-Star game is proof of our quality.
Henry Ring, Jim, Curtin, Chris Armas and Damani Ralph have all been selected and have had an excellent first half of the season. Our young players are beginning to show signs of real confidence and have added to our overall depth pool of players that we feel we can count on. The All-Star break is a perfect opportunity for everyone to recharge the batteries and regain the energy and confidence to make a successful run toward the regular season championship and playoffs.
We have always set our goals high in achieving two domestic championships: the MLS Cup and the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. I can assure you that we as a team and organization will continue to work very hard to achieve these goals. Be patient and I thank you for your continued support of your Chicago Fire.
Dave Sarachan
Chicago Fire head coach
