4ATX Foundation, Austin FC’s nonprofit arm, hosted the sixth annual A Night in Verde Gala, A Benefit 4ATX Foundation, Presented by St. David’s HealthCare at Q2 Stadium on Wednesday, October 7. The unforgettable evening brought 4ATX supporters together with Austin FC players, coaches and ownership to invest in 4ATX’s mission and honor the legends growing the roots of soccer across Central Texas.
Through the event, 4ATX raised over $1,300,000 to support 4ATX’s mission to use the power of soccer to help communities thrive – socially, emotionally and physically. Attendees were able to bid on several auction items, including the opportunity to travel with the team to a 2027 Austin FC away match, exclusive team memorabilia and several luxury getaway trips.
4ATX also awarded two (2) annual Legend of the Year Awards, presented by Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages: one (1) to an Austin FC player for their exceptional volunteer service to the community, and one (1) to a young person in 4ATX programs who has shown exceptional leadership skills.
Austin FC midfielder Ilie Sánchez and Verde Youth Leadership Academy graduate Lisseth Rodriguez Cruz were named as the Foundation’s Legends of the Year, presented by Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages.
Austin FC Captain Ilie Sánchez has a reputation that precedes him. Raised in Barcelona, he credits his family for instilling the values that have guided him throughout his career, including a belief in soccer as a force for good. Since arriving in MLS in 2017, Ilie has dedicated his time to community initiatives wherever the game has taken him. In Austin, that commitment has continued through his support of the Austin FC Special Olympics team and 4ATX youth leadership programs. Whether leading on the field or serving in the community, Ilie's impact is defined by the next generation he empowers along the way.
A recent graduate of Northeast Early College High School, Lisseth joined 4ATX programs through the Verde Youth Leadership Academy and spent the last two years transforming potential into momentum. Along the way, she became a standout coach for Verde Leaders and captain of the Northeast High School girl's varsity soccer team. Now, as she begins her next chapter at Texas State University, Lisseth's journey reflects how opportunity, mentorship, and leadership development can help young people build a brighter VERDE future.
“A Night in Verde continues to exemplify the bond between our Club and community,” said 4ATX Foundation Executive Director Kaitlin Mauro. “While we're proud to celebrate the individuals and organizations using soccer to make a difference, this evening is ultimately about investing in what comes next. We're grateful to every supporter whose generosity helps make this work possible and ensures we can continue creating opportunities across Central Texas.”
“Soccer has a special way of bringing people together and creating a sense of belonging. A Night in Verde captures that spirit and reinforces what makes our partnership with Austin FC and 4ATX Foundation so meaningful,” said Denise Bradley, vice president of marketing and corporate affairs for St. David’s HealthCare. “By investing in young people and creating opportunities for them to grow and thrive, we are helping build a stronger, healthier Central Texas for generations to come.”
Special sponsors and partners who made the Gala possible include The Precourt Foundation, St. David’s HealthCare, Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, Stonegate Pharmacy, Delta Air Lines, The Kong Family, Monika Suhnholz & Coldwell Property, Rigby Slack Lawrence Pepper + Comerford, PLLC, Frost Bank, and Lexus.
