Middle School

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Verde Leaders is a positive youth development program that combines soccer with Social-Emotional Learning, Restorative Practices and Mindfulness to help low-income youth find personal and academic success.

Our Curriculum

  • Developed at Harvard University
  • Evidence-informed by achievement motivation, adolescent development, and prevention science research
  • TEKS and U.S. Soccer-aligned

Program Components

  • After-school Training: Verde Leaders offers free after-school training twice a week. Our unique curriculum helps students sharpen their soccer skills while also developing critical SEL skills like healthy communication, relationship-building and goal setting.
  • Community Events: On weekends and during school breaks, students and families from all five Verde Leaders sites come together to create community through soccer and service projects.
  • Austin FC Experiences: Verde Leaders students have opportunities to join the larger Austin FC community by attending Austin FC matches at Q2 Stadium and meeting Austin FC players and coaches.

Participating Schools

  • Burnet Middle School, Presented by DLA Piper and SolarWinds
  • Gus Garcia Young Men's Leadership Academy, Presented by Siete Family Foods
  • Bedichek Middle School, presented by EVO Entertainment
  • Dobie Middle School and College Prep Academy
  • Webb Middle School

For more information/any questions, please contact us at 512-855-1919.

High School

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A paid, 10-month leadership development program where 12 high school students focus on personal and professional development, receive mentorship from Q2 employees, and gain coaching experience by working with Verde Leaders.

Program Components

Professional and Personal Development: Students meet weekly for group sessions with a focus on coaching and life skills including communication, goal setting, networking, and social awareness.

Mentorship Experience: Mentors from Q2 support students monthly at professional development meetings and provide a system of support

Coaching Opportunity: Students are placed in one of five local middle school Verde Leaders programs, where they assist head coaches, learn to lead activities, and mentor younger peers, all while gaining valuable paid experience.

Austin FC Connection: Students support 4ATX Foundation’s 50/50 raffle at Austin FC home matches and have the chance to meet Austin FC players at various events throughout the year.