Chicago Stars FC Files To Play At Evanston's Ryan Field

EVANSTON, IL — The Chicago Stars FC announced Friday the club has filed a permit application to play its upcoming seasons at Ryan Field in Evanston.

In a statement, the club said it sees Evanston as the next step in its journey to a stadium of its own.

The Stars recently commissioned a community poll by the 2040 Strategy Group, which showed 82 percent of Evanston residents were in favor of the team playing at Ryan Field. In the poll, residents said they believe the team would reinforce the city's values and promote gender equity.

"Evanston has a history of being a national leader in supporting women’s sports and advancing gender equity," said Chicago Stars FC President Karen Leetzow. "Bringing world-class professional athletes to compete right here creates powerful, real-life role models for young girls in the community while showing them what’s possible both on and off the field."

According to the club, its presence is expected to benefit Evanston's economy through ticket sales as well as increase foot traffic for local businesses, hotel stays, restaurant activity and job creation.

The club also recently announced it plans to begin building another North Shore hub in Bannockburn, with a player-centric performance center slated to open in 2027. The site will serve as the base for team operations and will feature two full-sized soccer pitches and a goalkeeper-specific pitch.

If the permit is approved, the Stars said the club intends to become a trusted community partner in Evanston. Leetzow said the Stars will work closely with local organizations and community groups to ensure that Evanston residents benefit from engaging with the club.

“Evanston can set an example for cities across the country,” Leetzow added. “By welcoming the Chicago Stars FC, the city sends a clear message that women’s sports matter, that economic growth and community values can go hand in hand, and that our young people deserve access to inspiring role models right in their hometown.”