Austin FC’s 4ATX Foundation today announced a soccer equipment drive in partnership Academy Sports + Outdoors that will benefit underserved members of the Greater Austin community. The donation drive kicks off Wednesday, Aug. 4 before the Austin FC vs. Houston Dynamo match and continues on select dates through the end of August, 2021 (details below).
4ATX Foundation and Academy invite Austin FC fans to donate new and lightly-used soccer equipment such as: soccer balls, cleats, shin guards, shorts and jerseys. New (unused) goalkeeper gloves, socks and sports bras are also welcome donations.
“Lack of adequate equipment is a barrier for many young people who would like to play soccer. 4ATX Foundation is proud to partner with Academy Sports + Outdoors and jointly help to increase access to soccer in Central Texas” said Kaitlin Swarts, Executive Director of 4ATX Foundation. “This exciting program supports two of our community pillars: Inclusivity through Equity and Vibrancy through Sustainability. Those cleats that didn’t fit, a ball you hardly use, or a new pair of socks could help someone get out on a field and play.”
Donations can be made at the 4ATX Foundation tent on HEB Plaza outside the Zebra Gate of Q2 Stadium prior to all four (4) Austin FC home matches in August. Matchday collection times are as follow (all times Central):
- Wed. August 4 vs Houston Dynamo, 5:00pm – 8:00pm
- Wed. August 18 vs. Vancouver Whitecaps, 5:00pm – 8:00pm
- Sat. August 21 vs. Portland Timbers, 5:00pm – 8:00pm
- Sun. August 29 vs. FC Dallas, 4:00pm – 7:00pm
Fans who donate appropriate soccer equipment at this location on matchdays will receive a $5.00 gift card to Academy Sports + Outdoors and may enter to win an autographed Austin FC jersey and two (2) Q2 Field Club seats to a future home match. One random winner will be selected after all donations in August have been collected.
Donations also can be made at the Verde Store in Q2 Stadium, with collections occurring on the following Mondays this month: Aug. 9, 16, 23 & 30 between 10:00am and 6:00pm. Fans who donate appropriate soccer equipment at this location on these dates will receive a 10% discount off scarves at the Verde Store.
