On the Win Last Night

Scoreboard at McKalla Place says it: Austin FC Wins!Austin FC fans haven’t had an easy time of it lately. A long run of losses, a spot at the bottom of the Western Division, and being included in discussions about the worst expansion team in league history will do that. There’s been lots of grumbling – or outright yelling – about the coach, the technical director, the owner, and the team. Players wrote open letters asking fans to not give up on them. And the fans kept showing … Read the rest “On the Win Last Night”

On the Wave

At the US vs. Nigeria game on Wednesday night, we were part of a full, enthusiastic crowd at McKalla Place, the first in history. The mood was high, the night was warm, and the excitement was electric. Some of our most beloved American stars were on the field, working hard to break down a tough and disciplined Nigerian defense.

And then someone started the wave.

Doing the wave at a game is like breaking out Pictionary or Cards Against Humanity … Read the rest “On the Wave”

On the McKalla Beer Selections

Thanks to Twitter user “Beerwords” (@anavenueblog), we know the starting lineup of beers on tap at McKalla Place for the first home game. First the snapshot of the Scrabble-style signboard, and below, the transcribed list.

The list … Read the rest “On the McKalla Beer Selections”

News & Notes after Game 1

Firsts

Last Saturday was one of the moments that Austin soccer supporters have been dreaming of for years. There will be many more firsts this season, but watching Austin compete in Major League Soccer on FOX was a beauty to behold. A small but vocal group made it to LA for Austin FC’s first ever match, while most of us viewed from homes and watch parties here in Austin. The national TV ratings placed the match as the top-rated soccer … Read the rest “News & Notes after Game 1”

On the Miracle of Austin FC’s Existence

The very existence of this MLS expansion club, in this city, at this time, is practically a miracle. There have been so many things that, if they had gone just a little differently, might have kept this from happening.

To be sure, there were plenty of hurdles that were cleared to get here. Failed attempts at getting downtown land for the stadium, a sitting member of Austin City Council traveling to Columbus on behalf of her constituents there, even a … Read the rest “On the Miracle of Austin FC’s Existence”

On the Name of the Stadium at McKalla Place

Though it has now become the center of many Austin soccer fans’ universe, none of us had ever heard of “McKalla Place” just a few years ago. We’re proud to have published the pragmatic and insightful post by Lee Nichols that introduced many to that name: My Stadium Pick: McKalla Place.

I’m assuming Anthony Precourt is going to read this, so let’s invite him: Mr. Precourt, make a visit to the McKalla tract. It won’t look very impressive. But

Read the rest “On the Name of the Stadium at McKalla Place”

On the McKalla Concessions Announcement

Austin FC has announced their local-forward food concession plans, based on a new “hospitality team” brand collaboration with the Levy company: 512 Food Co.

When doors open in June 2021, Q2 Stadium visitors will have a breadth of local favorites available throughout Q2 Stadium. 512 Food Co. is committed to partnering with the Austin restaurant community, and it will continue to identify future opportunities to work with small businesses of all cultures and tastes.

Their initial roster of more … Read the rest “On the McKalla Concessions Announcement”

My Stadium Pick: McKalla Place

by Lee Nichols

One of my favorite sayings is “the perfect is the enemy of the good.”

I usually apply it to politics, when I’m annoyed at those who demand ideological purity and refuse to consider a candidate who is actually electable.

I think it may apply to our Major League Soccer stadium search, as well.

On Tuesday, City of Austin staff released a map of public properties that might be used for the Columbus Crew if the team relocates … Read the rest “My Stadium Pick: McKalla Place”