MLS 101: Chicago Fire Edition

Though they were named after a brutal disaster, the Chicago Fire have been anything but disastrous during their 10 years in Major League Soccer.

The Men in Red have only missed the playoffs once in franchise history, and they are one of the most successful teams in US Open Cup history.

Unlike the dreadful Cubbies, they do not appear to be under any curse.

They first took the pitch in 1998, and they shocked the United States soccer scene, winning the MLS Cup and US Cup in their inaugural season.

Since that season, The Fire has settled for second twice (2000, 2003) and picked up the Supporters Shield once (2003). Their many support groups (of which my favorite would be “Mike Ditka’s Street Crew”) have had much to celebrate.

The Fire have been so good because they have fielded some amazing players over the years.

Along with current stars Cuauhtemoc Blanco and Brian McBride, past legends include Chris Armas, DaMarcus Beasley, Piotr Nowak, Ante Razov, Eric Wynalda, Carlos Bocanegra and Josh Wolff.

Their all-time best lineup could compete with anyone.

They play their games in the beautiful new Toyota Park, and they enjoy one of the highest average attendances in the league. Coach Denis Hamlett has a good squad coming back in 2009, too, and they are expected to go deep into the playoffs yet again.

If Blanco, a Mexican legend, contines to perform at the same high level, the Fire will not be extinguished.

As Peter and the other Fire fans who frequent this site could tell you, I have omitted the club from some recent top-10 lists, and I am now looking to make amends.

So, come back to STO tomorrow for articles about Soldier Field and the 1998 Chicago Fire.