Soccer Culture in Austin is growing and we LOVE to see it! I married a Uruguayan man. For those who don’t know, Uruguay has won 2 World Cup titles, 15 Copa America titles, and 2 Olympic gold medals. Uruguay may have a population of 3 million, but they often rank top tier in soccer.
The beautiful game of ‘futbol” is in my blood by marriage.
During the 2010 World Cup, when Uruguay beat Ghana, I remember getting in the car in a sleepy Virginia battlefield town. We flew the Uruguayan flag out the window screaming and cheering. No one was there to witness this act of fandom! In South America, Europe, and other continents, thousands of humans would fill the streets, cheering, crying, and jumping that their team got the win.
Now that my soccer-obsessed partner and I have been married for over 12 years, I have been seeing a massive shift in the U.S. Since huge soccer names have signed to MLS teams, such as Messi, Suarez, and Di Maria and Apple bought the rights to MLS matches for their subscription Season Pass, more people are tuning in.
The Euro Cup and Copa America are currently underway, with the Copa America being hosted in the United States! Austin has already hosted a few Copa America games and will be the venue for the MLS All-Star Game next year. Additionally, the FIFA Club World Cup will take place in the U.S. in 2025. Most importantly, the 2026 World Cup will be hosted across North America. The popularity of soccer in the region is set to reach unprecedented heights.
The Rise of Soccer in Austin
In recent years, Austin, Texas, has become a hotbed for soccer enthusiasm. The city’s passion for the beautiful game is evident in the success and support of Austin FC, the city’s Major League Soccer (MLS) team. Since its inception, Austin FC has captured the hearts of locals, bringing together a diverse community of fans who share a common love for the sport.
Our family loves the atmosphere at Q2 Stadium, the home of Austin FC, is electric. Matchdays are a celebration of soccer, filled with chants, colorful displays, and an overwhelming sense of unity. Supporters’ groups, such as the club’s Murga, Los Verdes, and Austin Anthem, play a significant role in creating this vibrant environment. Their dedication to the team and the sport reflects the growing soccer culture in the city.
Austin’s soccer culture extends beyond the professional scene. The city’s numerous parks and recreational facilities are always bustling with pick-up games, youth leagues, and amateur tournaments. Soccer has become a staple in the lives of many Austinites, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.
How to Get Involved
I wanted to create a curated list to help you and any family members find a soccer community within our city and neighboring suburbs. Whether you’re signing your child up for club soccer or finding an Austin FC jersey to support Los Verdes at the next game at Q2, it’s all linked below.
Get Them Involved in a Local Club
Barca Academy: One of the top youth soccer clubs in Austin, offering comprehensive training programs for various age groups and skill levels. They emphasize technical skills and teamwork.
LoneStar: A well-established club known for its competitive teams and excellent coaching staff. They provide a pathway from recreational to elite soccer for young players.
Pflugerville FC: Serving the Pflugerville area, this club focuses on fostering a love for the game while developing players’ technical abilities and sportsmanship.
Capital City: Offers a range of programs from recreational to competitive leagues. Known for its community-oriented approach and skilled coaching.
One World: A diverse and inclusive club that aims to unite players from all backgrounds through the love of soccer. They offer personalized training to enhance each player’s potential.
FC Westlake: Known for its strong emphasis on player development and competitive play, FC Westlake provides top-notch facilities and coaching for aspiring young athletes.
Austin FC Academy: This is a soccer club associated with Austin FC and helps raise future MLS talent. There is never an open try-out. Their recruiters will invite you to be part of this team. (My oldest son’s biggest dream!)
Take Them to a Soccer Camp
British Academy: Offers immersive soccer camps with coaches from the UK. Focuses on improving skills, tactics, and overall understanding of the game in a fun and engaging environment.
UT Soccer: The University of Texas provides excellent soccer camps for young players, featuring top-tier facilities and coaching from collegiate-level coaches.
SoccerZone: A local favorite for its fun and dynamic soccer camps. They offer programs for various age groups, ensuring a comprehensive soccer experience.
Get Them a Jersey
Dicks Sporting Goods Domain: A reliable spot to find a wide selection of soccer jerseys, including Austin FC gear. They offer both adult and youth sizes.
The Soccer Corner: Specializes in soccer apparel and equipment. Known for its extensive collection of jerseys from various teams around the world, including Austin FC.
The Verde Store: The official Austin FC store, where you can find all the latest team merchandise, including jerseys, scarves, and other fan gear.
Take Them to a Game
U.S. Friendlies: Experience the excitement of international soccer with the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Teams playing friendly matches. A great way to see top-tier soccer talent in action. They are playing Panama at Q2 on October 12!
Austin FC: Catch the city’s beloved MLS team at Q2 Stadium. The atmosphere is electric, and the experience is unforgettable for any soccer fan.
Austin FC II Pro Next Academy at Parmer Field: Watch the future stars of Austin FC as they compete in developmental matches. It’s a great way to see up-and-coming talent.
Copa America Schedule: Don’t miss the action of one of the most prestigious international tournaments. Check the schedule to catch matches happening right here in the U.S.
MLS All-Star Game Schedule: The MLS All-Star Game is coming to Austin in 2025. It’s a must-see event featuring the league’s top players competing against international stars.
FIFA Club World Cup 2025: The FIFA Club World Cup is coming to the United States in 2025, bringing together the best club teams from around the globe to compete for the ultimate title. For the first time, American fans can witness world-class talent and thrilling matches on home turf.
World Cup 2026 Schedule: With the 2026 World Cup set to be hosted all over North America, keep an eye on the schedule to be part of the biggest soccer event in the world.
Encourage Pick-Up Play
Zilker Park: A popular spot for pick-up soccer games. It’s a great place to meet fellow soccer enthusiasts and enjoy a casual game in a beautiful setting.
Check Out Mini Pitches: The 4ATX Foundation, the nonprofit arm of Austin FC, has constructed seven state-of-the-art mini-pitches across Austin and Central Texas alongside its community and corporate partners. All pitches are free to use, open to the public, and dedicated to providing a safe place for families to gather and play. These mini-pitches are perfect for quick matches and skill development, making the game accessible to everyone in the community. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking for some fun, these mini-pitches offer a great environment to enjoy soccer.
The Pitch: Located at the Parmer Field where Austin FC II plays, this is a great spot to eat, play, watch games, and relax with the family!
The soccer culture in Austin and the United States is experiencing a remarkable transformation. From the passionate support for Austin FC to the nationwide excitement for international tournaments like Copa America and the upcoming World Cup, the sport is thriving like never before. As we look forward to the future, it’s clear that soccer has firmly established itself as a beloved and integral part of American life. So, whether you’re cheering in the stands of Q2 Stadium or watching from home, there’s no denying the powerful and unifying force of soccer in our lives. This list of local businesses, clubs, and parks can help anyone in your family who loves the beautiful game feel more connected and excited about this sport.
My family is dedicating space on our YouTube, Instagram, and other social media platforms to dive into the history, reactions, and predictions of current soccer matches, as well as to celebrate the vibrant soccer community in Austin. We’d love to be your gateway to the soccer world in Central Texas. Follow us @CasaCarbi on all platforms and join the conversation!
