February 3, 2005
Chicago Gaels FC To Debut in 2005
Team Replaces Cobras

CHICAGO - There will be a couple of changes in Chicago area soccer in 2005. Amadan Soccer LLC announced two changes on Tuesday. They include a new name and a new team.

First, the Chicago Fire Reserves will be changing their name to Chicago Fire Premier. The name change will reflect the team’s participation in the Premier Development League. The team has made an impact in the United Soccer League in its four-year campaign, posting an overall regular season record of 58-9-7.

Second, with the folding of the Chicago Cobras, Amadan announced a new W-League team will be introduced to Chicagoans. The Chicago Gaels FC will make its debut with the 2005 season.

“We are excited to expand our relationship with USL by the addition of the Gaels FC,” Amadan President and General Manager Mark Boyle said. “Our goal with our sponsors, Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire, has been to develop Chicago as the soccer capital of North America. We look forward to extending this vision with the addition of the Gaels FC.”

The team will be holding tryouts in April. More information can be found at www.chicagogaelsfc.com. Chicago Fire Premier Coach Mike Matkovich will assist with recruitment and planning of the team until a head coach is named.

“We are disappointed to lose the Cobras, but are excited to welcome the Gaels to the W-League,” W-League Director of Operations Tammy Crawford said. “USL has seen great success in the Chicago area and based on the success of the Fire Premier, we are confident that tradition will continue with the Gaels.”