When Values Meet on the Pitch: Detroit City vs. Chicago Fire

From left: CJ Brown (Chicago Fire FC), Nora Dooley (SWB Assist Director), and Todd Kropp (Detroit City FC) at the U.S. Open Cup match in Detroit, where values-driven leadership took center stage.

When Detroit City FC and Chicago Fire FC faced off in the U.S. Open Cup, it was more than just a match—it was a powerful display of what it means when professional clubs lead with values.

Both clubs are part of Switch the Pitch, an inclusive coach training initiative led by Soccer Without Borders and Common Goal. Designed to equip coaches with the tools to lead with empathy, authenticity, and awareness, Switch the Pitch is reshaping how coaches engage with youth on and off the field. Through this training, Detroit City FC and the Chicago Fire are building more equitable spaces for young people to play, grow, and thrive.

For Nora Dooley, SWB’s Director of Assist, the match was particularly meaningful. She stood alongside CJ Brown, Director of Community Soccer at Chicago Fire FC, and Todd Kropp, Co-Owner and Chief Operating Officer of Detroit City FC—two leaders who are helping to shape a more inclusive future for soccer in the U.S.

“When clubs lead with values, the entire community feels the impact,” Nora reflected. “CJ Brown and Todd Kropp are the real deal, and it was a privilege to join them at the Open Cup match and connect two leaders who have been integral to the success of Switch the Pitch. We need more of this, and leaders like them, in the world of pro soccer.”

Voices from the Field

CJ Brown, Director of Community Soccer, Chicago Fire FC:

“The U.S. Open Cup is a chance for amateur and lower-division teams to take on a first-division club. It’s the best tournament in the United States. I had the opportunity to meet Todd, one of the founders of DCFC, at our game. To listen to an owner who believes in this game and the community he works in—and is willing to stand in front of racism through sport—is, to me, the ultimate win. They are leading the way for the USL Championship both on and off the field. These messages have to come from the top in order for real change to happen. I look forward to exchanging best practices and helping spread the word on how important it is for more clubs to be part of Switch the Pitch and help change the soccer landscape.”

Todd Kropp, Co-Owner and COO, Detroit City FC:

“Last night’s match against the Chicago Fire provided an invaluable opportunity for DCFC to connect with another leader in this crucial space. It was inspiring to chat with a like-minded individual so dedicated to equipping youth soccer coaches and staff with the necessary tools to address racism, both on and off the field. Our conversation with CJ underscored the shared understanding that creating positive and supportive environments for young players requires proactive and continuous effort.”

This night at the U.S. Open Cup wasn’t just about who advanced in the tournament—it was about the kind of game we all want to build. A game where inclusion, leadership, and community are at the center.