Crossbar Syndicate began doing pop ups in the old Payless space on Diversey and Milwaukee with the support of @logansquarechamber in 2024. From that relationship we started hosting small gatherings across the street at Solidarity Triangle. We created small goals using construction barrels and aptly named it barrel ball. Every other week rain or shine spring through autumn we brought out dj’s, food, drinks, merch, vibes, and always in the spirit of inclusion. Looking forward to 2026, we knew we wanted to continue to host events in Logandale, but strip it all back and just play small sided games in a cool outdoor setting, and Unity Park happen to be the perfect spot! Over the course of the next several months our goal is to utilize the world’s sport as an agent for positivity and building community relationships.
All skill levels are welcome, we ask that you come out to have fun, be respectful of each other, and bring a friend!
The format; 3 v 3, first to 2 goals, or whoever is winning after 5 minutes. Winning team stays on until they are beaten. We will be playing on asphalt with 3’ x 5’ goals, and using futsal balls.
What you need; comfortable clothing, flat non slip or indoor soccer shoes, water, and a snack.
Youth (6-17) from 11:30-12:30
Adults (18 and up) from 12:30-1:30
Code of conduct
We are playing for fun and not to get injured. Fouling and poor sportsmanship will not be tolerated. If you’re looking for a highly competitive game, this is not for you.
If you plan to attend we ask that you sign up using the link in our linktree so we know how many to expect. This is a new program for us and we ask for feedback and patience to help us create a really fun experience for everyone.
Thank you ~ Crossbar Syndicate
Football doesn't exist outside the world that makes it. It absorbs everything — politics, identity, place, time — and reflects it back at you.
Reflections: The Pitch as a Mirror is a mixed media gallery show brought to you by football creatives from around the world. Chicago, June 12–14. Free entry - RSVP at link in bio. Different programming each night. More to come.
Issue 4 is almost here, and we've got two launch events.
We'll be at the Stanchion Book Fair in London on May 30th — Brixton Library, 11:30AM to 4:30PM, free entry. Come find us alongside some of the best independent football publications, groups, and creatives around. @stanchionbooks
The Chicago launch follows on June 6th at The Soccer House @soccerhousehq (501 N Ogden). 6PM to 10PM, free entry. Writer panel, a conversation about the issue and the game, and Crossbar Syndicate (@crossbarsyndicate ) making custom shirts on the spot so bring something from home or pick one up in the shop.
RSVP in bio.
If there's something you want us to get into on the panel, leave a note when you sign up.
We'll see you there 😎
I love Rome… how many times have I said that already?
This trip just keeps getting better.
Love my @adidas outfits!
Comfortable, effortless, and never boring.
Today’s highlight: my beautiful custom tote from @crossbarsyndicate , created in collaboration with @passingpattern — my favorite football ( soccer) magazine (and yes, my son’s project, which makes it even more special ❤️).
And stay tuned… the next issue drops at the end of May, just ahead of the World Cup.
Something special is coming — get ready.
One more thing, if you are in London, you can meet @alekstzander at The London Football Book Market 2026 on Saturday, 30 May, from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm at Brixton Tate Library, featuring independent authors, publishers, illustrators, and photographers
@passingpattern@adidas@adidasoriginals@adidasy3@crossbarsyndicate
Join us on Saturday, May 9th at @shopwellrounded from 11am-4pm for our very own soccer jersey release.
Custom jersey printing provided by @crossbarsyndicate
Merchandise by @eatworms.cc and @youngharlen
Free food and refreshments will be available while supplies last.
We hope to see you there!
927 W. 18th ST.
12pm-4pm
⚽️Footy Pick-up!
Starting May 17th, join us at Unity Park for weekly pickup games hosted by @sidewalk_fc & @crossbarsyndicate .
All skill levels welcome—just bring good vibes and love for the game. Whether you’re looking to get touches in, meet new people, or just enjoy the run, this is your spot.
📍 Unity Park
🗓️ Starting May 17th
Tag your squad and pull up. Let’s play.
We had the pleasure to collaborate with the youth group @palenquelsna . They wanted to create something that was personal to each of them while also using a common theme throughout. After meeting as a group, we then broke out into individual sessions to hear their ideas for their jerseys. We were especially excited they were down to use vintage blanks (all older than any of these kids) as their canvas! Palenque LSNA is a safe space where Black, Brown, Indigenous, and Immigrant communities and allies can come together to care for one another and build common ground through collective action. They are doing the good work in Avondale, and you should check them out. Photo credit to Carlo @riseaboveprosper #wekeepussafe #chicagofootyculture #handsoffchicago
We did our first Fuck Ice live kit press back in October, here are some photos from our second one @definitiveselection back in December. As we prepare for our third one @marzbrewing on February 21st, we can’t help but think how truly fucked up it is that we are still doing this. Thank you to everyone involved and for those who show up and support the cause. We will continue to show up and donate to organizations that do the good work and fight for those who are most vulnerable right now.
