As if it wasn’t news around the city, Sam Kerr and Nikki Stanton are coming to Chicago!

With season approaching fast, we caught up with the duo to get their thoughts on the Red Stars, differences to New Jersey and their tourist destinations hotspots.

Chicago Red Stars: When you found out you’d be heading to Chicago, what were your first thoughts?

Sam Kerr: “I was a bit surprised! I didn’t expect to be going to Chicago but also very excited for a new challenge in a team that has been in the semifinals the last few years.”

Nikki Stanton: “When I heard about the trade to Chicago I was beyond excited! As well as playing for such a professional club who constantly competes for the NWSL championship, I also can’t wait to wear the cool jerseys.”

CRS: What are you looking forward to the most in Chicago?

SK: “I am most excited to link back up with Vanessa DiBernardo and Alyssa Mautz. I previously played with them at Perth Glory & loved playing with them both. Also exploring Chicago, which I’ve heard is a great city.”

NS: “I immediately thought of Alyssa Mautz and Vanessa DiBernardo. I really enjoyed playing with them in Perth last year. They are great players and great people and am really looking forward to being teammates with them again.”

CRS: What will be the biggest change from New Jersey to Chicago?

SK: “Biggest change will probably be the beach. I will miss living on the jersey shore and my roommates.”

NS: “I think one the biggest change coming to Chicago will be the style of play. I’m excited for the high press, energetic and fast paced game the Red Stars plays. Toyota Park is also such an amazing field to play on. The freezing cold temperatures will also be quite the shock when first arriving.”

CRS: What’s one thing you want to do in Chicago?

SK: “Win a championship!”

NS: “I want to do everything there is to do in Chicago! I want to go to every restaurant, every coffee shop and go to all the parks. Really looking forward to exploring a new city, as well as experiencing the city life. I also want to see the river on St. Patrick’s day. Rumor has it, they dye it green.”

CRS: What should Red Stars fans be excited for in 2018?

SK: “I think the fans are always excited about the Red Stars, but hopefully they are as excited about me and Nikki being on the team as much as I am excited about playing for the club. I think I bring a lot of fun to the field too, so hopefully they can see that!”

NS: “I think the Chicago Red Stars are going to be the most fun team to watch this year! There will be a lot of non-stop action on the field.”

CRS: If you weren’t playing professional soccer, what would you be doing? 

SK: “I have no plan B. I was always going to be a professional player. If I had to choose though, my dream job would to be a secret agent.”

NS: “I studied psychology in school, so if I wasn’t in the NWSL, I would probably be some sort psychologist. But also maybe a teacher or a police officer.” 

CRS: Is there a player, past or present, that you aspire to be?

SK: “I don’t compare my game to anyone. But obviously being a forward I hope to one day be as good a goal scorer as some of the best players around the world.”

NS: “The player that I aspire to be like is Kante, from Chelsea. He is an extremely hard worker and is constantly buzzing around the field. For such a small little guy he really impacts the game.”

Catch Kerr, Stanton and the rest of the Red Stars at Toyota Park this season. Season Tickets and Flex Packs are on sale now, and fans can secure 2018 Season Tickets for as low as $180. Visit chicagoredstars.com to purchase your tickets today.