In 2021, Austin FC became the 27th club to join Major League Soccer (MLS), ushering in a new chapter for soccer in the United States. Austin, a city known for its music, food, and tech scene, added another cultural dimension with the introduction of its soccer team. The establishment of Austin FC signified the city’s growing passion for soccer and its desire to be part of the MLS landscape. The club, while new, has already shown potential on the field, with a rich history yet to be written.
In this article, we will explore the history, formation, key players, fan culture, and future aspirations of Austin FC, diving into what makes this club unique in the rapidly growing world of American soccer.
The Formation of Austin FC
Austin FC was officially awarded an expansion franchise on January 15, 2019, by Major League Soccer, making it the first professional soccer team in the city’s history. The decision to bring an MLS team to Austin came after years of speculation and efforts by local soccer fans, businesses, and city officials. The city of Austin, with a population of over 900,000, had been without a major league soccer team since the dissolution of the Austin Aztex, a second-division team that folded in 2011.
The process that led to Austin FC’s formation was a long one. In the years leading up to 2019, several ownership groups, including billionaire Anthony Precourt’s Precourt Sports Ventures, tried to bring a soccer franchise to Austin. The effort gained traction after several years of planning and negotiations, culminating in the announcement of the club in 2019. Anthony Precourt, who had previously been involved with the Columbus Crew, became the team’s primary investor and chairman.
In 2020, the team broke ground on the construction of Q2 Stadium, located in North Austin. The stadium would become the new home for the club, complete with state-of-the-art facilities designed to create a unique fan experience. With an investment of over $200 million, Q2 Stadium was designed to not only host soccer games but also provide a community-focused space that would help Austin FC become a focal point for the city’s soccer culture.
Q2 Stadium: The Heart of Austin FC
Q2 Stadium, which officially opened on June 19, 2021, is a modern soccer-specific stadium with a seating capacity of 20,500, making it one of the smaller MLS stadiums but packed with an electric atmosphere. Located in the northern part of Austin, Q2 is easily accessible and is designed to bring fans close to the action on the field.
The stadium features cutting-edge technology, fan-friendly seating, and sustainable design elements. One of the most prominent features is the large, open-air design, which allows the stadium to naturally integrate with the surrounding landscape and weather. This open-air design helps create a lively environment during matchdays, particularly during Austin’s warm, sunny days. The seating at Q2 Stadium is designed for comfort and offers unobstructed views of the pitch from virtually every seat.
Q2 Stadium is also home to the club’s supporters group, the “Boldest.” This group of passionate fans fills the stadium’s north end with chanting, singing, and non-stop support for Austin FC. The stadium’s design, combined with the energy of the Boldest, has quickly turned Q2 into one of the most exciting and intimidating places to watch a soccer match in the United States.
The Austin FC Team: Players and Coaching Staff
Austin FC’s roster, like the club itself, is still in its early years but has already seen several standout performances from key players. In their debut season in 2021, Austin FC showed promise despite finishing toward the bottom of the Western Conference standings. However, they showed flashes of brilliance, and their competitive spirit caught the attention of soccer fans across the country.
One of the key players for Austin FC has been Sebastián Driussi, an Argentine attacking midfielder who joined the team in 2021. Driussi came to the club with a strong pedigree, having played in Europe’s top leagues with clubs like Zenit St. Petersburg. He immediately became one of the team’s key attacking players, providing goals, assists, and leadership on the field.
Another player who has been crucial to Austin FC’s success is Alex Ring, a Finnish defensive midfielder. Ring, who joined the club in 2021, has been a staple in the team’s midfield, providing both defensive stability and playmaking ability. His leadership qualities have also been valuable for the team as they build their identity in the league.
The team’s first-ever head coach, Josh Wolff, was appointed in 2020. Wolff, a former U.S. national team player and an experienced assistant coach, was tasked with building a competitive side from scratch. In his first season, Wolff faced the challenge of balancing the development of younger players while also integrating experienced internationals into the squad. His tactical style is based on possession and pressing, with a focus on building from the back and creating goal-scoring opportunities through quick transitions.
Austin FC’s Fan Culture: The Boldest
One of the most unique aspects of Austin FC is its passionate fan base. Austin’s soccer culture has grown exponentially in recent years, and the club has attracted fans from all walks of life. The team’s supporters group, known as “The Boldest,” plays a huge role in making matchdays memorable. The Boldest is known for their colorful displays, loud chants, and unwavering support for the team.
Supporters of Austin FC are a mix of die-hard soccer fans, longtime Austin residents, and newcomers to the city. This diverse fan base reflects the city’s eclectic nature and the global appeal of soccer. The Boldest’s chants, drums, and coordinated movements have created an electrifying atmosphere in Q2 Stadium. Fans gather in the north end of the stadium, where the atmosphere is most intense, and their passion is felt throughout the entire venue.
Austin’s fans have also been known for their strong sense of community. Austin FC is seen as more than just a sports team; it’s a representation of the city itself. The club’s slogan, “All for Austin,” emphasizes the connection between the team and the city’s people. The fans’ connection to the team has become so deep that they are often seen as one of the most loyal and enthusiastic fanbases in MLS.
Austin FC’s Future Prospects
As a relatively new club in MLS, Austin FC’s future looks promising. While their debut season in 2021 saw the club finishing toward the bottom of the standings, there were positive signs, particularly in their ability to compete against some of the league’s top teams. With the right mix of talent and experience, Austin FC has the potential to become a regular playoff contender in the coming years.
One of the key factors in Austin FC’s future success will be its ability to attract top talent. The club has already shown it is capable of signing quality players like Sebastián Driussi, but in order to compete consistently at the top level, they will need to continue to build their roster with international stars and young, homegrown talent. Austin FC’s commitment to scouting and player development will be vital to the team’s growth.
Additionally, as the team matures and builds its identity, it will be essential for the club to remain competitive in the ever-evolving MLS landscape. The club’s leadership, headed by Josh Wolff, will continue to be instrumental in shaping the team’s future and establishing Austin FC as a competitive force in North American soccer.
FAQs
When was Austin FC founded?
Austin FC was officially founded on January 15, 2019, when Major League Soccer (MLS) awarded the city an expansion franchise. The announcement marked a major step forward for soccer in Austin, a city that had previously been without a top-level professional soccer team. The team played its first official MLS match in 2021.
Where does Austin FC play?
Austin FC plays its home matches at Q2 Stadium, located in North Austin. The stadium, which opened on June 19, 2021, has a seating capacity of 20,500 and is designed specifically for soccer. Q2 Stadium features state-of-the-art facilities and an intimate atmosphere that allows fans to be close to the action on the field. It is one of the most modern and fan-friendly soccer-specific stadiums in Major League Soccer.
Who owns Austin FC?
Austin FC is owned by Anthony Precourt through his investment firm Precourt Sports Ventures. Precourt was also previously involved in the ownership of the Columbus Crew, another MLS club. He played a pivotal role in bringing Austin FC to the city, securing the franchise rights and leading the charge for the club’s establishment.
What is the team’s primary color and mascot?
Austin FC’s primary color is green, symbolizing the city’s eco-conscious culture, while also reflecting the natural surroundings of Austin. The club’s secondary color is black. The team’s mascot is “The Boldest,” a representation of the club’s passionate fanbase. The Boldest refers to the dedicated supporters group, and the mascot embodies the community-driven spirit of the team.
Who is Austin FC’s head coach?
Austin FC’s head coach is Josh Wolff, who took over the managerial role in 2020. Wolff, a former U.S. national team player, has experience coaching with D.C. United and the U.S. Men’s National Team as an assistant. His tactical approach focuses on possession-based football, and he has been instrumental in shaping Austin FC’s playing style. Wolff’s leadership will be critical in the club’s efforts to continue building a competitive team in MLS.
In summary
Austin FC’s arrival in Major League Soccer has injected new life into the soccer scene in Austin and the U.S. as a whole. With a state-of-the-art stadium, a growing fanbase, and a solid foundation of talented players and coaching staff, the club is well-positioned for future success. As the team continues to develop and grow, both on and off the field, Austin FC will undoubtedly become a key part of MLS’s expanding footprint in the United States.
From its formation and the building of Q2 Stadium to its enthusiastic fans and bright prospects, Austin FC’s journey is just beginning. As they look toward the future, the club aims to become a mainstay in MLS and a champion for the city of Austin. With its commitment to community, soccer excellence, and fan culture, Austin FC is poised to leave a lasting legacy in American soccer.
To read more, Click here
Leave a Reply