Photo credit: mlssoccer.com
Every Chicago Fire supporter knows how much of a legend C.J. Brown is. The former Fire defender tallied 296 appearances for the men in red during his thirteen year career in Major League Soccer. A true rarity in the modern era, Brown spent his entire career with the Fire and the former captain was a pivotal figure for the club – both on and off the pitch – and his leadership earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches while his relentless attitude and commitment on the pitch won over the hearts of every Fire supporter.
Brown’s retirement at the end of the 2010 season was a sad sight for everyone associated with the club, but he’s since gone on to become an assistant coach at Real Salt Lake. Continuing down the path of his new coaching career, Brown has now launched a new soccer club called CJ Brown FC. The club has partnered with Berkeley Park District to bring high-level coaching to the Chicagoland’s youth and will offer organized training and consistent in house league for U8-U10 ages, including an option to join the NISL at U12 and U14. Registration for CJ Brown FC is Saturday, February 25th at Lind Park from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Seeing CJ Brown start an initiative to help promote soccer amongst Chicago’s youth only increases my admiration for him. I’m grateful for everything he did for the Fire throughout his playing career and it’s safe to say many more will be grateful for the things he is doing during his coaching career.
