On April 7, members of the Austin FC Unified Team, coached by Nicki Huschka and Amy Wiesenhutter for their third season with the team, gathered at St. David’s Performance Center for signing day activities and their first practice together. The Unified Team athletes took signing photos at the team’s facility and played soccer at Parmer Field.
Austin FC’s President Andy Loughnane officially signed players during the ceremony. Also in attendance were Austin FC players Jon Gallagher and CJ Fodrey, Head Coach Josh Wolff, Goalkeeper Coach Preston Burpo, and Assistant Coach Rodrigo Rios.
“Austin FC’s Unified Team is proud to continue to create a world of inclusion in a safe, competitive, and fun space for Special Olympics Athletes and Unified Partners, despite their differences in ability,” said Austin FC Vice President of Community Impact, Trennis Jones. “This is a remarkable group of young people that truly embrace the unified movement.”
Following the ceremony, the Unified team headed out to Parmer Field for its first training session of the season, where Austin FC and Austin FC II players CJ Fodrey, Micah Burton, Aaron Cervantes, Jonathan Santillan, and Ervin Torres joined the training session. Later this month, the Austin FC Unified team will practice with the Austin FC U-17 Academy squad on April 29 at St. David’s Performance Center.
“Being a part of the Austin FC Unified team as a partner has been a profound experience, one that has enriched my life beyond measure. It's not just about soccer; it's about the camaraderie and the genuine connection with extraordinary individuals,” said Moises Aguirre, Unified Partner & member of the 2024 Austin FC Unified Team. “Through every practice, every game, and every shared moment, I've learned the true meaning of inclusion, acceptance, and the power of teamwork.”
The team began weekly practice on March 27, in preparation for their first ever tournament taking place in May. Austin FC Unified will take on FC Dallas and Houston Dynamo Unified teams at FC Dallas’ Toyota Soccer Center in Frisco, TX, from May 11-12. Later in the year, on Sept. 28, the Austin FC Unified vs Real Salt Lake Unified game will take place following the MLS match at Q2 Stadium.
