By Lesley Ryder
Chicago Stars FC return to play this Friday against Gotham FC at home. The team spent the first half of the season in the bottom of the table, and named their third head coach of the season on July 1st. After a month of training, a trip to Kansas City, and hard conversations, the Stars are eager to show their work.
Interim head coach Ella Masar has spent the break evaluating the Stars roster, and putting together a system that will work best with what they have. “We used the Teal Cup [tournament], right or wrong, to allow the players that haven't had the opportunity, an opportunity, and we got some answers there throughout it,” Masar said in her pre-match media availability. “I believe in these players. I believe the system that you guys are going to see on Friday night is what makes the best out of our system.”
The extended training time allowed the team to tighten up defensively, and take accountability for the first half of the season. “To be honest, it's been some hard conversations, but you always start with me [the coach]” said Masar. “And the girls have allowed me to coach and to try to make them a little bit better, because I know they know I believe in them.”
Masar’s time as an NWSL player gives her coaching style a unique perspective. Stars players have spoken highly of her experience. “You’re learning every time she speaks,” said Chicago veteran Maitane Lopez. “I think she she brings this understanding of the mental part and she also pushed us so much so she really wants the best for us, and we know that. We're really grateful to have her.”
This weekend’s match will offer the Stars an opportunity to show the work done over the summer break. The Stars have struggled at home this season, gaining just one of their 6 points on the season in front of a home crowd.
Notes from the field
- Alyssa Naeher has been removed from the 45-day injury list, and will be available for selection for Friday’s match.
- Jameese Joseph remains on the 45-day injury list, but she has been training with the team.
- Summer transfer window signee Kathrin Hendrich has arrived in-market, and could be available for selection. Masar: “It's on her, but she will help the team in any capacity, if that's possible, then we will have her with us on Friday.”
- Parallels: Last time the Stars played Gotham FC, it was Masaki Hemmi’s first match as interim coach after the team parted ways with Lorne Donaldson. The teams played to a scoreless draw.