On this day 142 years ago, the Great Chicago Fire began in our city. Long after the rebuilding had been finished, on this day 16 years ago, the Chicago Fire Soccer Club (NOT the Chicago Rhythm) was founded at iconic Navy Pier, immediately tying the newest MLS franchise to one of the city’s most defining historical events.
Today, as we do every year, we recognize the legacy not only of the city of Chicago but of the 16 years of our club and we hope you'll join us tonight at the Toyota Park Stadium Club to do so.
Until then, here are a few Fire related 16s…
The men who wore 16...
Josh Wolff (1998-2002), Andy Williams (2003-2004), Will John (2005), Brian Plotkin (2006-2007), Marco Pappa (2008-2012), Brendan King (2013- )
Not only...
…did Williams and Pappa wear #16 throughout their Fire tenures, both also racked up 16 regular season assists in their time with the club.
Did you know...?
Neither Fire legends Lubos Kubik (1998-2000) and Cuauhtemoc Blanco (2007-2009) wore 16 but both scored 16 MLS regular season goals and it was the attacker Blanco who tallied more from the spot?
The Mexican World Cup veteran edged Kubik 7-5 in penalty kicks converted for the Fire.
Former Fire goalkeeper Matt Pickens racked up 16 wins with the Fire between 2004-2007. The tally his fourth most among Fire goalkeepers behind Zach Thornton (109), Sean Johnson (39) and Jon Busch (25).
Also…
When he appears on Saturday, Sean Johnson will tie DaMarcus Beasley for 16th on the club’s all-time MLS appearance list at 98 games played.
Current Fire defender Gonzalo Segares sits seventh on the club’s all-time U.S. Open Cup appearance list with 16 games played while…
…former Fire defender C.J. Brown holds the record for most international appearances (CONCACAF & SuperLiga) with 16.
It's been an honor to be part of this club for four of its historic 16 seasons. Here's to many more. See everyone tonight and HAPPY SWEET 16 FIRE!
