First Women’s Event at Wrigley Field in Nearly 80 Years

Bay FC and Chicago Red Stars to Make History at Wrigley Field

Chicago native Kayla Sharples is set to make history this Saturday as her team, Bay FC, takes on the Chicago Red Stars at Wrigley Field. This will mark the first professional women’s sporting event held at the iconic ballpark since 1943.

With a capacity of 41,649, Wrigley Field is expected to host a record-breaking crowd for the National Women’s Soccer League match. The current attendance record stands at 34,130, set in October 2023 at Seattle’s Lumen Field.

Sharples expressed her excitement about playing at Wrigley Field, stating, “There’s so much history here, and I’m hoping that this game will continue to grow interest in women’s sports and soccer in Chicago.”

The match comes at a time when women’s sports are gaining popularity nationwide, with Bay FC’s inaugural season in the NWSL adding to the excitement. Additionally, the Bay Area will see the introduction of the Golden State Valkyries in the WNBA and the Oakland Soul in the USL Super League in 2025.

Both teams are preparing for the unique challenge of playing on a baseball field, with adjustments being made to accommodate the smaller dimensions of the pitch. Coaches and players alike are eager to showcase their skills and make the most of this historic opportunity.

As the anticipation builds for Saturday’s game at Wrigley Field, fans and players alike are looking forward to a memorable and groundbreaking event in women’s sports.