CJBF Celebrates Its Spring 2025 Season with a Family Outing and Pro Match Experience at Soldier Field

On June 14, 2025, the CJ Brown Foundation (CJBF) concluded its Spring season with a joyful day of soccer, community, and inspiration — a celebration that brought together youth and families from across Chicago and provided many with their first-ever experience at a professional match.

The day began at Tuley Park in Chatham, where players from CJBF’s Neighborhood Soccer Program in Chatham were joined by participants from the Foundation’s after-school programs at Holy Angels (Bronzeville) and St. John de la Salle (Roseland). Multiple games were played in a festival-style format, with players rotating through extended matchups, scoring goals, and showcasing the skills they had developed over the season.

After the final whistle blew, families gathered to enjoy fresh snacks, music, and an authentic community atmosphere before boarding buses together and heading to Soldier Field for a unique doubleheader, featuring Chicago Stars FC (NWSL) and Chicago Fire FC (MLS).

A First-Time Professional Soccer Experience for Many

With the support of donors and ticket partners, CJBF provided over 100 tickets for CJBF players, family members, and coaches, many of whom were attending a professional soccer game for the very first time. CJBF Founder CJ Brown — a former Chicago Fire FC captain and first team assistant coach — rode alongside families and staff, adding a special touch to the already memorable day.

“It was incredible to see our players light up and get excited about being at the game and in the atmosphere where there is such a clear passion for the game and City,” said Brown. “For many of them, this was a first-time experience seeing the highest level of the game live, and we’re grateful to everyone who contributed to help us do so as a community.”

The Games: Goals, Stars, and Lasting Memories

The evening’s action began with the Chicago Stars FC taking on the Seattle Reign in a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The Stars jumped to a 2-0 lead in the first half thanks to two electric goals from Brazilian striker Ludmila, who wowed the crowd with her pace and precision. In the second half, the Reign fought back to equalize, and the thrilling match ended in a 2–2 draw.

Next up, the Chicago Fire FC took the field to roaring applause and pyrotechnics. Their fluid passing and quick attacking sequences had the home crowd hopeful, but Nashville SC found the breakthrough, with second-half goals by Hany Mukhtar and Sam Surridge sealing a 2–0 win for the visitors. Still, the crowd — including the young CJBF players — remained energized and engaged throughout, cheering on their city’s team, which featured many players from Chicago and its suburbs, and soaking in the entire matchday experience.

Many players also enjoyed interactive activities in the Chicago Fire and Chicago Stars Kids Zones, leaving with club souvenirs, new heroes, and even bigger dreams. They proudly declared themselves new fans of both Chicago’s pro clubs!

More Than Just a Game

This end-of-season outing represents the heart of the CJ Brown Foundation’s mission — using soccer as a bridge for belonging, opportunity, and joy. By creating access to experiences like these, CJBF not only trains future players but nurtures community pride and long-term passion for the game.

“We say it all the time: it's not just about developing better soccer players,” Brown added. “It’s about creating spaces where young people feel seen, supported, and celebrated.”

With summer programming now underway in Chatham, South Chicago, Roseland, and North Lawndale, CJBF continues to grow its footprint and deepen its impact in communities where sport can be a transformative force.

To learn more about the CJ Brown Foundation’s youth soccer programs or to support future outings and events, visit www.cjbrownfoundation.org.

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