Austin FC Owners Boost Support for Local Youth Soccer Development
Austin FC burst onto the Major League Soccer scene in 2021, bringing top-flight professional soccer to Texas' capital city. The club's ownership group boasts an intriguing mix of business acumen and star power.
Anthony Precourt serves as the founder, majority owner, and CEO of Austin FC. Precourt, who previously owned the Columbus Crew, led the effort to bring an MLS franchise to Austin. He's joined by a group of prominent investors, including Academy Award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey.
The ownership team also features tech executives Eddie Margain and Marius Haas, as well as energy entrepreneur Bryan Sheffield. This diverse group combines local Austin roots with industry expertise, aiming to establish Austin FC as a formidable presence in Major League Soccer and a source of pride for the city.
Austin FC's Inception and Ownership
Austin FC emerged as a Major League Soccer expansion team with strong local ties and celebrity involvement. The club's ownership structure combines experienced sports management with Austin-based business leaders and creative talent.
Foundation of the Club
Anthony Precourt founded Austin FC in 2018 after relocating the operating rights from Columbus Crew. His company, Two Oak Ventures, secured the expansion rights for Austin. The move faced initial controversy but ultimately gained support from the local community.
Precourt's vision centered on creating a soccer club deeply rooted in Austin's culture. He worked closely with city officials to develop plans for a soccer-specific stadium and training facilities.
Ownership Group
The ownership group expanded in 2019 to include prominent Austinites. Matthew McConaughey, the Oscar-winning actor, joined as a minority owner. Other new partners included:
Eddie Margain (Pixiu Investments)
Marius Haas (tech executive)
Bryan Sheffield (energy entrepreneur)
This diverse group brings a mix of business acumen, local influence, and star power to the club's leadership.
Financial Management
Two Oak Ventures oversees Austin FC's financial operations. Precourt's background in investment management, including roles at Precourt Capital Management and WHV Investment Management, provides a solid foundation for the club's fiscal strategy.
The ownership group's combined expertise spans various industries:
Entertainment
Technology
Energy
Finance
This diverse skill set aids in revenue generation, sponsorship deals, and long-term financial planning. The club aims to balance competitive success with sustainable business practices.
Stadium and Facilities
Austin FC's infrastructure includes state-of-the-art facilities designed to support the team's success and engage the local community. The club's investments have created world-class venues for both matches and training.
Q2 Stadium and Development
Q2 Stadium stands as the centerpiece of Austin FC's facilities. Located in North Austin, this soccer-specific stadium opened in June 2021. The $260 million venue was privately financed through a public-private partnership with the City of Austin.
With a capacity of 20,738, Q2 Stadium features an innovative design that captures Austin's unique culture. The stadium incorporates indoor-outdoor spaces, distinct neighborhood environments, and greenery representative of the city.
Designed by Gensler, Q2 Stadium aims to serve as a "living room" for Austin. It includes pedestrian-friendly areas and spaces that showcase the local music scene.
Training and Performance Center
St. David's Performance Center serves as Austin FC's primary training facility. This state-of-the-art complex provides the team with cutting-edge resources for training, recovery, and development.
The center features multiple full-size pitches, including natural grass and artificial turf surfaces. It houses advanced fitness equipment, medical treatment areas, and sports science technology to optimize player performance.
Beyond training, the facility includes office space for technical staff and front office personnel. It also offers amenities for youth development programs, reinforcing Austin FC's commitment to nurturing local talent.
Cultural and Community Impact
Austin FC's owners have made significant contributions to the local culture and community. Their efforts span philanthropic initiatives, support for the arts, and programs aimed at youth development.
Community Involvement
The club's nonprofit arm, 4ATX Foundation, uses soccer as a tool for positive change. It focuses on improving social, emotional, and physical well-being in Austin neighborhoods. The foundation creates safe spaces for families to connect and be active. It also runs programs to develop young leaders.
Austin FC's majority owner has invested in local initiatives beyond soccer. The club welcomes all members of the community, working to serve equitably. They identify and address various community needs, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity.
Cultural Influence
Austin FC amplifies the city's unique creativity. The club supports local artists and musicians, integrating Austin's vibrant culture into its identity. This approach helps strengthen the bond between the team and its community.
Matthew McConaughey, an Academy Award-winning actor and Austin FC co-owner, serves as the club's "Minister of Culture." His role involves promoting Austin's multi-cultural spirit through the team's activities. This unique position highlights the owners' dedication to preserving and celebrating Austin's diverse cultural landscape.
The club's cultural impact extends to its support of Austin's green spaces and waterways. These efforts align with the city's environmental values, further embedding the team in local culture.
Team and Sporting Operations
Austin FC has built a strong foundation for success through strategic hires and a focus on player development. The club's approach emphasizes both on-field performance and long-term growth.
Management and Strategy
Claudio Reyna joined Austin FC as Sporting Director in November 2019. His appointment brought valuable experience from his tenure at New York City FC. Reyna oversees soccer operations, including player recruitment and academy development.
The front office emphasizes business acumen alongside soccer expertise. This approach aims to create a sustainable and competitive franchise within MLS. Austin FC's management strategy focuses on building a strong team culture and identity.
Playing Philosophy and Academy
Austin FC prioritizes an attacking, possession-based style of play. This philosophy extends from the first team down to the academy levels. The club's academy system serves as a pipeline for developing local talent.
Youth development is a key focus, with the academy aiming to produce future first-team players. Austin FC invests in coaching and facilities to support player growth at all levels.
League Participation
As the 27th club in Major League Soccer, Austin FC competes against established teams like FC Dallas, LAFC, and Portland Timbers. The club's goal is to consistently reach the MLS playoffs and contend for championships.
Austin FC participates in league initiatives and has representation on the MLS Board of Governors. This involvement allows the club to contribute to league-wide decisions and growth strategies.
The team faces challenges typical of expansion franchises but aims to establish itself as a competitive force in the Western Conference.
Partnerships and Sponsorships
Austin FC has forged strategic alliances and commercial partnerships to strengthen its position in Major League Soccer. These relationships extend beyond financial support, contributing to the club's growth and community impact.
Strategic Alliances
Austin FC's ownership group expanded in 2019, welcoming notable Austinites. Eddie Margain, Matthew McConaughey, Marius Haas, and Bryan Sheffield joined Anthony Precourt as partners. This move brought local expertise and star power to the club's leadership.
McConaughey, a well-known actor and Austin enthusiast, adds significant visibility to the team. His involvement helps connect Austin FC to the city's cultural fabric and global audience.
The club's partnership with Q2 Stadium showcases its commitment to creating a world-class venue. Located in The Domain area, the stadium serves as a focal point for soccer fans and a hub for community events.
Commercial Partners
Austin FC has secured partnerships with prominent companies across various industries. In 2024, the club announced five new official partners: AMD, Chevron U.S.A. Inc., Austin Telco Federal Credit Union, The UPS Store, and UBEO.
These additions complement existing relationships with brands like Dell Technologies and YETI. Such partnerships provide financial support and enhance the club's technological capabilities and fan experiences.
The diverse range of partners reflects Austin's dynamic business landscape. From tech giants to local credit unions, these alliances help Austin FC connect with different segments of the community and strengthen its economic impact in the region.
