Rookie Matt Polster to Wear No. 2 for Chicago Fire

With the start of the 2015 season just two weeks away, rookie defender Matt Polster has chosen No. 2 as his first professional number. Though one of the newest and youngest members of the side, Polster recognizes the special place that the No. 2 kit holds in the hearts of Fire fans. Worn by Fire original and Ring of Fire member C.J. Brown during his 13 years as a player, the No. 2 shirt has only been worn one other time for the Fire, by Wells Thompson, for 27 minutes in 2012.

“I understand the impact that C.J. had on this club during his playing career,” said Polster. “It’s extremely rare for a player in any league to have that longevity with one team and I certainly respect that. To try and emulate the success he had with this club is a lofty goal but I’m committed to working hard and am excited for the challenge.”

• READ:Rookies Impress Through First Half of Fire Preseason




After a standout four-year collegiate career at SIU-Edwardsville, Polster had an impressive MLS Combine and was selected seventh overall in the SuperDraft on Jan. 15. Though he split time as both a center back and central midfielder in college, the 21-year-old partnered with Chris Ritter as a center back in the Fire’s recent preseason scrimmages in England, contributing to shutouts of both Norwich City FC and Queens Park Rangers.

“To pull on my first professional jersey is a dream come true,” said Polster. “But at the end of the day, it’s not what is on the back of the jersey that matters. What is important to me is the badge on the front, so I’m focused on playing hard, helping the team in whatever way I can and representing the club in a way that will make everyone proud.”