Chicago
On a fateful afternoon in August of 1998, Matt Hornberger found himself in a central London pub watching the Charity Shield match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United.
Matt recalls, “The Manchester United fans were classless wankers, so I was hoping for an Arsenal win.” History tells us, Matt’s hopes were realized as The Gunners won 3-0.
Some time later, Matt crossed paths with Arsenal supporters from his local pub, and says, “I’ve been a fan ever since.”
Matt became the Chicago Branch Manager in 2005, but demurs, saying, “In all honesty, our branch manager in spirit will always be Gary Winters. The man doesn’t miss a match and is always waiting with a pint in hand for both the new and old supporters.”
According to Matt, there is only “one legitimate Arsenal pub in Chicago”, The Globe Pub, currently a finalist for Best Soccer Bar.
The Globe Pub
1934 W. Irving Park Rd.
Chicago, IL 60613
Phone: (773) 871-3757
Asked about the fans at The Globe, Matt replies, “There are supporters present for every single match that is televised. Larger crowds gather for the weekend matches and mid-week Champions League ties. Send me an e-mail and we’ll try to save you a spot.”
Thanks to Arsenal America, Matt was fortunate enough to see the final match at Highbury.
Matt recalls, “There are so many football moments that are wonderful - but my best memory is leaving something special on one of Highbury’s walls before the final match. I will never forget that day and am forever grateful to the friends that allowed me to share it with them.” Then without hesitation, he says, “My second favorite memory is the 25th of April, 2004.”
Like so many of his fellow Branch Managers, Matt reckons the best thing about supporting Arsenal, is “the other supporters I have met in Chicago, London and elsewhere.”
In a city of almost 3 million people, it’s nice to know you can still find a true Gooner!
Matt Hornberger
Chicago Branch Manager
chicago@arsenalamerica.com
