4ATX Foundation, Austin FC’s nonprofit arm, hosted the fifth annual A Night in Verde Gala, A Benefit 4ATX Foundation, Presented by St. David’s HealthCare at Q2 Stadium on Thursday, September 25. The unforgettable evening brought 4ATX supporters together with Austin FC players and coaches to celebrate the mission of 4ATX Foundation and honor the legends growing the roots of soccer across Central Texas.
Through the event, 4ATX raised over $1,100,000 to support 4ATX Foundation’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 an Austin FC away match, exclusive team signed items, and a matchday experience with Minister of Culture Matthew McConaughey through the live auction portion of the night, sponsored by Q2 Software.
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 forward Diego Rubio and Verde Leaders student Alexa Arenas Mejia were named as the Foundation’s Legends of the Year, presented by Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages.
Over the past two (2) years, Rubio has been a consistent presence in 4ATX programs and Austin FC community impact initiatives, sharing his time, perspective, and experiences with the next generation of soccer players and community leaders. His commitment to leaving every place is better than he found it continues to shape both Club and Community.
A seventh grader at Webb Middle School, Arenas Mejia is in her second year with Verde Leaders. An Austin native, she carries on her parents’ love of soccer, rooted in their childhoods in Mexico. Alexa competed as the only girl in the 2025 MLS All-Star Community Cup, helping her team capture the championship title. Guided by her coach and mentor, Gabriela Garcia, Alexa continues to grow and dreams of one day becoming a Verde Leaders coach herself.
“A Night in Verde is such a special night where we get to show the true strength and connection across our VERDE community,” said 4ATX Foundation Executive Director Kaitlin Mauro. “We’re so grateful for our supporters and donors who continue to fuel our mission year after year."
“The 4ATX Foundation Gala is more than just a celebration—it’s a powerful reminder of the impact soccer can have in strengthening communities and creating opportunity. St. David's HealthCare is proud to support 4ATX Foundation and their mission to make the game accessible to all,” said St. David’s HealthCare VP of Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Denise Bradley. “Our partnership with 4ATX Foundation reflects a shared commitment to building a healthy, vibrant Central Texas for everyone."
Special sponsors who made the Gala possible include The Precourt Foundation and Stonegate Pharmacy.
