Major League Soccer and Wells Fargo announced on Friday the 27 Community MVPs who were selected this year for making a positive impact in their communities, with Ismael Guzmán receiving the honor for Austin FC.
For over a decade, Guzmán has been dedicated to helping young people play soccer in east Austin, and is a legend to those who have played for East Austin Soccer Club. By single-handedly tending to the field where local young people play, Guzmán has provided access to the sport for competitive teams and low-income youth, helping them develop as players and as people.
"Ismael has been a leader in the Austin soccer community for years, working tirelessly to create opportunities for young players in east Austin," said Austin FC VP of Community Impact Kaitlin Mauro. "Our Club is thrilled to honor him as Austin FC's Community MVP."
Guzmán has focused his efforts on providing underprivileged children the opportunity to play competitive soccer at a sufficiently low cost to families in a city where poverty disproportionately affects people of color, and many children are less likely to participate in organized soccer.
For the 2021 MLS WORKS Community MVP Program presented by Wells Fargo, fans around the country had the opportunity to nominate themselves or individuals who went above and beyond to give back to their communities. Nearly $70,000 will be donated to 27 charities on behalf of each Community MVP, one representing each MLS club.
As Austin FC’s Community MVP, Guzmán will receive a $2,500 donation to East Austin Soccer Club, a customized adidas MLS jersey and an MLS adidas NATIVO 21 Official Match Ball.
Visit MLSsoccer.com/CommunityMVPs for additional information on this year’s recipients.
