On April 7, TOYOTA PARK at 71st and Harlem will once again come alive with the sights and sounds of Chicago Fire Soccer for the home opener against 2006 MLS Cup finalists the New England Revolution. Not only can fans expect world-class soccer action between two MLS powerhouse teams, but the Chicago Fire Soccer organization has put together an extravaganza to welcome back fans for the Fire's 2007 season.
Fans are encouraged to get to the stadium grounds early to enjoy the excitement of FireFest that is set to take place on the northwest side of TOYOTA PARK, just inside Gate B. FireFest will feature DJ Mark and game-day partners 97.9 the Loop providing music; face painting; an obstacle course; a target wall, and a prize wheel, where fans can win Chicago Fire items.
The Fire have also added an incentive for fans to get to their seats early, as the first 2,500 fans through the gate will receive a coupon for a free hot dog from concession vendors located around the stadium. The first 10,000 fans will also receive a free Schedule Magnet, courtesy of Murray's Discount Auto Store. Also during a pre-game recognition, the 2007 men's and women's Donnelly Cup winners will be honored.
During halftime, the Fire and the Illinois State Soccer Association will unveil the new ISSA Hall of Fame, located on the southeast end of TOYOTA PARK. The Hall of Fame will consist of the Wall of Fame, a photographic display of the 127 current inductees, as well as list of 89 individuals who have received the Meritorious Service Award, and the History of Soccer in Illinois; a collection of trophies, soccer balls - including the ball used to score the first goal at TOYOTA PARK - and other precious Illinois soccer memorabilia. Among the invaluable trophies displayed will be the 1981 NASL Soccer Bowl Championship Trophy, won by the Chicago Sting when they defeated the New York Cosmos 1-0. The collection will also contain the Sting's Transatlantic Challenge Cup won in 1981 and the 1954 NASL Soccer Bowl Championship Trophy.
The Hall of Fame will be complete with a timeline of soccer in Illinois dating back to 1883 when the Pullman Association Football Soccer Team and the Original Wanderers played in Chicago's first sanctioned soccer match at the Pullman Works. Other important dates to check for include 1953, when the Chicago Falcons won the U.S. Open Cup, and 1991, marking the U.S. Women's win in the first-ever Women's World Cup. Historic pictures of players and teams will also be incorporated into the Hall of Fame. Be sure to look for the picture of the 1887 Braidenwood Miners Football Soccer Team; the oldest known photograph of a soccer team from Illinois.
Immediately following the match, Fire fans will be treated to an extensive post-game fireworks display by Sonic Boom Pyrotechnics.
Be sure to check the new Game Day Experiences Page on www.chicago-fire.com to stay up to date on game-day activities. The page will list give-away items, theme nights, special FireFest activities, and major events happening at each Chicago Fire home match this season.
With just over a week until the Fire home opener, fans should be sure to get their tickets today.
