MLS NEXT Pro announced today that Austin FC II was named Team of the Month for June, while goalkeeper Erik Lauta was named Goalkeeper of the Month and Head Coach Jason Shackell was named Coach of the Month.
This marks Lauta and the team’s second consecutive monthly awards, after earning the same honors last month.
The Verde & Black went a perfect 4-0-0 in June, completing their third month unbeaten with a 14-match streak dating back to their opening match of the season. Headed by Shackell in his first season, the team moved into first place in the MLS NEXT Pro Western Conference standings and has since pulled away at the top of the table with a six-point gap to second place. Furthermore, Austin FC II set a new MLS NEXT Pro record for consecutive wins in its last match of June, beating St. Louis City 2 for its ninth straight victory.
“It’s an honor to be named Coach of the Month, this achievement reflects the team’s dedication all season,” Head Coach Jason Shackell said. “Earning Team of the Month together alongside Erik’s well-earned recognition as Goalkeeper of the Month, speaks to the effort they’ve all put in. I’m proud of this group and grateful to the entire coaching staff for their hard work. We’re looking forward to carrying this momentum forward.”
Lauta started in all four of Austin’s June matches with two clean sheets and two goals conceded. He recorded 10 saves in June including five key saves against Minnesota United FC 2 to secure the Verde & Black’s 3-1 victory. Lauta now totals 33 saves and six clean sheets so far this season, tying him with Portland Timbers2 Sam Joseph for most clean sheets in MLS NEXT Pro’s 2026 season.
Austin FC II returns home Sunday, July 5, to face Colorado Rapids 2 for a 7:30 p.m. CT kickoff at Parmer Field. The match will be available to watch on OneFootball and MLSNEXTPro.com.
