Plus, a change to a preseason event by the Fire.
RED STARS DEAL PICKS: The Chicago Red Stars were busy on the day before the NWSL College Draft. First, they dealt the #6-overall pick to Sky Blue FC in exchange for forward Katie Johnson. The Red Stars’ highest second-round pick in 2020 will also go to Sky Blue.
Johnson was drafted by Seattle in 2017 where she scored four goals and two assists in 23 matches with the Reign. Last year, she was traded to Sky Blue FC and scored four more goals. As a member of the Mexican National Team, she has scored eight goals and earned 21 caps.
“I am absolutely excited and thrilled to be joining this club,” said Johnson. “They’ve always had a great reputation and have repeatedly been one of the top teams in the league. I can’t wait to arrive in Chicago and play with some of the best players because I think if you play with some of the best players it elevates your game too.”
Then, the Red Stars sent the #7-overall pick to the Washington Spirit in exchange for the 20th overall pick this year and the Spirit’s natural first-round pick in 2020. With the trades, the Red Stars retain the #1-overall pick as well as picks 15, 20, 24, 26, and 33. A final list of eligible players can be found on the NWSL website.
IT’S NOW A GALA INSTEAD OF A LUNCHEON: After 20 years of lunches, the Chicago Fire Foundation have decided to take their Season Kickoff Event to prime time and from Downtown Chicago to the near West Side. The Fire’s Season Kickoff Gala will take place on Tuesday, February 26th from 6pm to 9pm at the Geraghty at 2520 S Hoyne.
Designed as a cocktail-attire event, the gala will feature a reception, dinner and an extensive silent auction that will allow attendees to bid on autographed Fire gear, additional sports memorabilia, gift certificates and much more. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet the Fire’s coaches and players ahead of the club’s 22nd season which starts March 2nd at LA Galaxy.
“We are delighted to announce a new approach to this year’s season kickoff,” said Chicago Fire Soccer Club Chief Operating Officer John Urban. “Our previous luncheon events have clearly made an impact on the Chicago community, and this year’s new gala format will allow us to aim even higher as we create more opportunities for students in Chicagoland.”
Tickets can be purchased on the event’s Eventbrite page.
