As Chicago prepares to host the 2017 Major League Soccer All-Star Game presented by Target, Mayor Rahm Emanuel today joined Major League Soccer and Chicago Fire Soccer Club officials to open two new mini-pitches in Gage Park. The mini-pitches provide a small area specifically designed for organized soccer programs and pick-up games. The event is a part of activities leading up to the All-Star Game on Wednesday.
 
“These new soccer facilities will give youth in Gage Park and beyond a state-of-the-art place to play one of the world’s most exciting and popular games,” Mayor Emanuel said. “I look forward to seeing some of the kids playing here today kick their way into in a future MLS All-Star Game.”
 
The new mini-pitches were supported by MLS WORKS (MLS’ community outreach initiative), the Chicago Fire, the U.S. Soccer Foundation, Southern New Hampshire University and the Chicago Park District. They are designed to support local youth programming, including the Chicago Fire’s P.L.A.Y.S. Program and the Chicago Police Department’s new Community Engagement through Sports initiative.
 
Following the official dedication, the MLS WORKS/Chicago Fire All-Star Community Day Youth Tournament championship match was played on the new pitch with teams of Chicago Fire Juniors players. MLS All-Stars served as celebrity coaches.
 
The event was part of MLS WORKS/Chicago Fire All-Star Community Day at Gage Park. Facilitated by Chicago Fire Youth Coaches, the day gave members of the community an opportunity to participate in youth soccer activities presented by AdvoCare.
 
The 2017 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target will pit Major League Soccer’s best players against Spanish superpower Real Madrid. The game takes place on Wednesday at Soldier Field.

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