Details and nomination information for the
2009 Season Ticket Holder of the Game program
will be available in March 2009.
October 23 -
Rick Stanek
Chicago, IL
October 23 vs. NY Red Bulls
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
I was a season ticket holder during the Chicago Fire's inaugural year in 1998. However, during the middle of the season I was transferred out of Chicago for my job. It would take me 8 years and multiple transfers to make it back home to Chicago. Upon returning home to Chicago I immediately purchased season tickets and have been a season ticket holder for the past 2 years and love every minute I am at the games.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
I have been a soccer player, a coach and a referee for many years and I am a loyal and dedicated Chicago Fan! So when I heard that Chicago was going to have a soccer team, I just had to have season tickets to the sport I love the most.
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
The Fire player that I would want to have dinner with if it could only be one would have to be Brian McBride. Being almost the same age, I have great admiration and respect for him and for what he does on the field. Brian is a true soccer player that shows great heart and passion for the game. I remember watching the 2006 World Cup match in which De Rossi elbowed McBride in the face which cut him open pretty badly. The Bloody Brian McBride was like a warrior in that game. Even after the injury he continued to play making his presence known. I have watched him play for many years so I was elated to find out he was coming to the Chicago Fire. I could not wait to see him play live and in person. I have several questions I would like to ask him especially what it felt like playing in the English league for Fulham and how the style of play is different between US and Europe. I would like to discuss his soccer career and what he would like to do once he has stopped playing the game professionally. It would be a great honor for me to have dinner with him.
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
One of my favorite moments was when the Fire beat the LA Galaxy last year to make the play-offs. That was a very exciting game and the Fire Fans were in full force. The stadium lead by Section 8 was electrifying. You could tell that the players were Fired up and determined to win. It was great seeing the Blanco vs. Beckham match up as well. Another great moment for me was when Blanco and McBride both scored their first goals at Toyota Park. To be able to see two of the games greatest players score a goal in person was one of my most memorable and favorite moments in Fire history as well.
October 12 -
Bill Langevin
Chicago, IL
October 12 vs. Columbus Crew
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
First year [with Full Season Tickets], but have been a Flex plan holder for awhile.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
I was always a soccer fan but the first Fire game I went to was against D.C United in 1998, the atmosphere drew me in and I was hooked. Ever since then I was hooked.
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
It would be a tough decision between Chris Armas and Brian McBride. Growing up it was always Chris Armas, team captain a vocal and spiritual leader. He was my favorite mainly because I was a mid-fielder and so was he. Playing with heart and passion never went unnoticed in my book so a dinner with Chris Armas would be amazing his stories of playing when the league was first formed, the national team, and being a coach would be great. After watching the national team for many years McBride would be another extraordinary dinner partner with him playing on the MLS moving to Europe, leading the national team to third place in the 2002 world cup, and now playing for the Fire. It would be a tough decision which would probably end with a toss of a coin.
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
Probably when John Thorrington scored the late goal against L.A to send us into the playoffs. I was in Section 8 right so I had an incredible view of the goal. It was something I would never forget. Toyota Park burst into a loud roar which was amazing to be a part of.
September 21 -
Stacie Bell
Chicago, IL
September 21 vs. FC Dallas
Pictured with her husband, Josh.
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
Since the 2006 season.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
I originally began coming to the games because my husband was a fan, but I loved them so much that I have become a fan myself. Listening to Section Eight cheer at the games has been an inspiring experience and they may the game truly enjoyable event that I want to be a part of.
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
If I could have dinner with any Fire player, I would choose Marco Pappa. In the short time that Pappa has been with the Fire, he has shown great energy and skill. He is an inspiration for the children of Guatemala and I hope that Sector Latino rallies around him as a focus for Latino pride.
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
Winning the US Open Cup at home in 2006!!!
September 21 -
Stacie Bell
Chicago, IL
September 21 vs. FC Dallas
Pictured with her husband, Josh.
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
Since the 2006 season.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
I originally began coming to the games because my husband was a fan, but I loved them so much that I have become a fan myself. Listening to Section Eight cheer at the games has been an inspiring experience and they may the game truly enjoyable event that I want to be a part of.
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
If I could have dinner with any Fire player, I would choose Marco Pappa. In the short time that Pappa has been with the Fire, he has shown great energy and skill. He is an inspiration for the children of Guatemala and I hope that Sector Latino rallies around him as a focus for Latino pride.
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
Winning the US Open Cup at home in 2006!!!
September 6 -
Nicholas Vanaria
Romeoville, IL
September 6 vs. NY Red Bulls
Pictured with his wife, Lucy.
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
Two years.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
Because I love soccer and wanted to support my hometown team. Whether they were in Naperville, Soldier Field, or TOYOTA PARK, no distance is too far to go to see the Fire.
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
Brian McBride. I would love to sit down and hear his stories and comparisons of playing in both the MLS and the English Premier League. To be able to hear a player’s perspective on playing in front of a crowd where every game is like the Super Bowl to its fans.
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
I would say that my most memorable would be the extra time goal scored by John Thorrington against the Galaxy last year. Not only did the Fire win and get put into the playoffs, but my wife, who is not a soccer fan, joined me for that game and I was glad that she was able to share in my passion for the Fire for even one game. To be able to win that game and have that goal scored in the dramatic fashion like that really put the icing on the cake. When I was going crazy when they scored, she said that she finally was able to see how much I loved the Fire first-hand and she now knows why I gave up my White Sox season tickets for Fire season tickets.
August 16 -
Chris Egan
Hickory Hills, IL
August 16 vs. DC United
Pictured with her friend Mary Meadors (right).
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
Since the 2006 season.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
When TOYOTA PARK was built, a friend who was a soccer fan for years and I decided to buy season tickets. I thought that it would be something new and different to do. After experiencing the first season at TOYOTA PARK, I was hooked. The Chicago Fire is a very exciting team. They definitely play with great passion and determination. I truly appreciate the sport of soccer now that I have seen it in person. The physical strength and endurance is amazing.
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
Calen Carr #3. From the first year at TOYOTA PARK Calen Carr became my favorite player. When Calen enters the game, there is a definite added energy to the game. The pace seems to change for the better. Calen is fast to the ball and is a tough competitor when bringing the ball down field. In the brief times that I have spoken to Calen in the Stadium Club, he seems genuinely nice and down to earth. I look forward to Calen returning next year after a successful recovery from his injury.
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
One of my favorite moments from the Fire's history is Sept 2006 when the Chicago Fire won the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. The entire season was exciting, but this moment was the icing on the cake, defeating LA Galaxy for the trophy!
August 2 -
Cameron and Deanna Egan
Honorary Season Ticket Holders of the Game
August 2 vs. Chivas USA
Son & Wife of Staff Sergeant Dain Egan, who is currently deployed with 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines.
July 19 -
Chet Young
Prospect Heights, IL
July 19 vs. Real Salt Lake
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
I have been a season ticket holder since the Fire's first season in 1998.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
I became a Fire fan because I love soccer. When the old Chicago Sting played in the North American Soccer League (NASL), I attended many games and fell in love with the sport. I wanted to support the Fire, MLS, and soccer in general. Besides, my wife and two sons love it, too.
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
If I could have lunch with any player, I believe I would choose Peter Nowak. I'd pick him because he was a great player, but he also has played in Europe, has coached in MLS, and is currently coaching at the US national team level, so he would be able to share insights into all areas of the sport, the league, and the growth and development of soccer in the US.
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
My most memorable moment in Fire history is difficult to choose. While I remember the first Fire game, the MLS Cup championship game, the US Open Cup championship at Soldier Field, and other great moments, I think my most memorable moment would be the first game at TOYOTA PARK. Knowing how vital it is to the success of MLS to have their own stadium, and having lived through the many inconveniences of having to be a tenant at Soldier Field, I really appreciate how great Toyota Park is. That first game was great, with a full house, great atmosphere, and wonderful field.
July 12 -
Jason & Victoria King
Palos Park, IL
July 12 vs. Toronto FC
Attended the Fire match after their wedding and reception on July 12, 2008.
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
My wife and I have held season tickets for the last two years.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
I became a Fire fan after I came back from studying in Russia in 2004.
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
Ivan Guerrero. I really liked his style and I really miss seeing him on the pitch for us.
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
My favorite moment was winning the 2006 Open Cup. The atmosphere was wonderful, the fans were amazing, and it took place on my birthday. What a wonderful birthday present it was for me!
June 28 -
Edgar Del Rivero (right)
Chicago, IL
June 28 vs. San Jose Earthquakes
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
I'm going to go with a total “cop out” pick and choose Cuauhtémoc Blanco. I'm a Chivas de Guadalajara fan, so I really disliked Blanco when he played for America. I was a bit skeptical when the Fire picked him up as their designated player. How I was mistaken!! He has been great for the Fire. I would love to pick his brain about being on the Mexican National Team, playing for one of the biggest clubs in Mexico, what the transition was like to the MLS, and what he thinks of Chicago.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
This is a tough one. I would have to say the Fire winning the US Open Cup in 2006. This is the year for another Double winning season!!
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
1998 Fire Championship and Fire vs. Galaxy games.
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
1998 Fire Championship and Fire vs. Galaxy games.
June 7 -
Miriam Recinos
Chicago, IL
June 7 vs. DC United
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
Since 2005
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
Soccer is my passion. I love Chicago and save my money to come to games.
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
Peter Nowak because he is good – and good looking!
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
1998 Fire Championship and Fire vs. Galaxy games.
May 17 -
Roger Gutierrez
Chicago, IL
May 17 vs. Houston Dynamo
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
Since 1999.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
I became a Fire fan because I have always loved "Futbol" and always wanted a team to call my own.
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
That question I leave to my son. He says Cuauhtémoc is his choice. Why? Because he is a player that links the two favorite clubs of ours. The Fire & America. (The FIRE is first of course).
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
Peter Nowak scoring the winning goal at MLS Cup '98.
April 26 -
Gabriel Viveros
Chicago, IL
April 26 vs. Colorado Rapids
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
This is my first year as a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
I have always been a soccer fan and player since I was a child. When I found out in 1997 that Chicago would be getting their own soccer team I knew I would be a Chicago Fire Fan!
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
It would definitely be Cuauhtémoc Blanco because I have always been a fan of him, he is undeniably one of the greatest players of our time and it would be a pleasure to have dinner with someone who has accomplished so much during his career and it’s a privilege to have him be part of the Fire.
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
Undeniably the 1998 Double!
April 20 -
Raul Farfan
Elgin, IL
April 20 vs. KC Wizards
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
10 years...since the very beginning.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
Because I love soccer and I was so happy when I found out that Chicago was going to have an MLS team. I also thought it would be a fun time and a great experience to go to all the games with my family (wife and kids).
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
Peter Nowak, because I think he’s one of the best players that the Chicago Fire had. I have a lot of great memories of watching him play many games at Soldier Field.
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
When the Fire won the conference championship on October 16th, 1998 that led to them winning the MLS Cup in Los Angeles.
April 3 -
Nathan Tavarez
Willow Springs, IL
April 3 vs. New England Revolution
How long have you been a Chicago Fire Season Ticket Holder?
I have been an STH since 2006 when they built the new home of the FIRE.
Why did you become a Chicago Fire fan?
I became a fan after purchasing season tickets and experiencing Chicago Fire Soccer live. It’s the only way to see it. I was captured with the passion that the fans have and the intensity from beginning to end.
If you could have dinner with any Fire player, past or present, who would it be and why?
Blanco. I really like his style of play and the passion that he shows for it. Even if you're not a fan, I dare anyone to come see what we saw Thursday and tell me they were not excited to be there.
As the Chicago Fire celebrates its 10 year anniversary, which moment in Fire history would you choose as your favorite so far?
Witnessing the Fire win the US Open Cup in 2006. It was a really exciting experience during and after the game in The Stadium Club after the game. It reminded me of being in Houston at the private party with The White Sox when they won the World Series in 2005.
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