On March 28, Austin FC hosted its fifth annual Unified Team Signing Day and Media Day presented by Jabil at Q2 Stadium. Players and their families gathered for signing day activities, photos, and their first moments together as a team ahead of the new season.
The 2026 roster was selected following tryouts held in February at St. David’s Performance Center. The team features six returning players, including Christian Bradshaw and Zack Wilkinson, who have been part of the program since its inaugural season in 2022.
Head Coach Nicki Huschka returned for her fifth season leading the team. A Special Olympics volunteer for more than three decades, Huschka has coached for 28 years and continues to bring her experience and passion for creating an inclusive environment through sport.
Austin FC President Andy Loughnane officially signed players during the ceremony, joined by Jabil representatives Chad Dubroca, SVP Global Business Units, Cloud and Enterprise, and David Becerra, VP Global Business Units, as well as Austin FC first team players Ilie Sanchez, Brad Stuver and CJ Fodrey.
Following the signing ceremony, players participated in Media Day activities, including individual and team photos to mark the start of the season.
The Unified Team, presented by Jabil, began training in March in preparation for its upcoming matches. Austin FC Unified will face Houston Dynamo Unified on April 25 at Q2 Stadium following the first team match. The team is scheduled to then travel to face Colorado Rapids Unified on August 1 before returning home to take on FC Dallas Unified on August 15.
"The Unified Team is an important part of who we are as a Club,” said Austin FC President Andy Loughnane. “Signing Day is always a meaningful moment for the Unified Team athletes and their families, and we are very proud to support them as they represent Austin FC when they take the pitch on April 25 at Q2 Stadium.
