Chicago Construction News staff writer
Chicago Stars FC have unveiled plans to develop a player-centric training and performance center designed specifically for a professional women’s soccer team, with construction expected to begin in spring 2026 and operations slated to open in 2027.
The club has identified a 10-acre site in Bannockburn, Ill., for the facility, which will serve as the hub for all team operations. The project is being developed in partnership with global sports design firm Populous and Marquee Development, a sports and mixed-use real estate company.
Chicago Stars executive chairperson Laura Ricketts said the project represents a significant milestone for the club and for women’s professional soccer.
“This facility will set the standard in women’s professional soccer by providing the infrastructure our players need to develop to their highest level of performance,” Ricketts said. “It’s not just an investment in the Stars, but in the future of women’s soccer.”
The sustainably built performance center will include two full-sized soccer pitches and a goalkeeper-specific pitch. A 45,000-square-foot adaptive re-use building will house training, recovery and wellness spaces, including dedicated recovery modalities, a weight room with indoor-outdoor access, and areas designed to support mindfulness and mental health.
Populous was selected based on its experience designing facilities for National Women’s Soccer League teams and its focus on inclusive, athlete-informed design. The firm has worked on women’s soccer projects including facilities for the Portland Thorns and Denver Summit FC.
Populous principal Brooke Craig said Chicago Stars players were engaged early in the design process to ensure the facility reflects their needs.
“These facilities must address the unique needs and talents of female athletes,” Craig said. “With direct player input, we are confident this performance center will be a game changer for the club.”
Chicago Stars head coach Martin Sjögren said having a private, purpose-built facility will play a key role in player development and performance.
“The environment will eliminate distractions and allow our players to fully focus on their craft,” Sjögren said. “It supports the whole person, both mentally and physically, and helps us continue to attract top-level talent to Chicago.”
Marquee Development was selected as the project’s development partner following a site search. The Bannockburn location was chosen for its proximity to the club’s new home stadium, Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium in Evanston, as well as its access to Chicago and surrounding business centres.
Village of Bannockburn officials welcomed the project, citing its alignment with community values and the growth of women’s professional sports.
“This partnership brings a world-class athletic facility to our community,” said village manager Stephanie Hannon. “The Stars’ commitment to excellence and their positive impact as role models make them a strong fit for Bannockburn.”
In addition to team operations, the performance center is designed to support commercial opportunities, including naming rights and select brand partnerships aligned with the club’s focus on player development and community impact. W Partners has been retained to lead corporate partnership sales for the club and the new facility.
The Chicago Stars expect the performance center to be fully operational by the end of 2027.
