March 16, 2006
TIME FOR .... SOME SOCCER
There's More than Just NCAA Basketball

It’s an exciting time of year for sports fans. And no not because of March Madness. Although, like many people, I’m a fan of a quality college basketball game. Being born and bred a Hoosier, it’s in my blood.

But people look at the bigger picture… it’s the time of year that soccer fans have been waiting for. The MISL season wraps up. The MLS season begins. European football wraps up. World Cup warm-ups will be in full swing. There’s plenty of action. So don’t hesitate. Tune in and catch the action.

Now let’s focus close to home. The Chicago Storm, in its second season in the MISL is literally a handful of wins away from making the playoffs. Five wins, or a combo of losses by the two last place teams – California and Philadelphia, will secure the Storm a playoff spot. Three teams have clinched – St. Louis, Milwaukee and Baltimore. Chicago could earn the lucky no. 4 position with a few wins.

The team added Andy Rosenband in hopes of adding some fresh legs to the roster. It’s time to come together as a team and make a push for the playoffs. It’s up to the Storm. The team has the playoffs in their grasp. All they have to do is make it happen.

Now let’s travel across town. The Fire is getting ready to begin its MLS season. Don’t fret fans… while the first five million games will be on the road (actually nine), the team will still be within reach. Come out and meet the players at the Firefest in Arlington Heights this weekend. Or skip school and head to the Fireworks For Kids Luncheon on March 28th. You can shake hands, get autographs and get ready to see what this team is all about.

Chicago fans prepare for a year of soccer you won’t forget. The doors to Bridgeview Stadium open in three months. That’s right. In three months, soccer will be cemented into the Chicagoland area. There’s no way the Fire’s going anywhere any time soon. It’s an exciting time to be a soccer fan and see the team come full circle.

Now… remember to tune into your favorite soccer/football games, supporting your local pubs or hiding from the last few snowflakes in the comfort of your own home. Invite a few friends over and celebrate the game we all love so much.