The 2020 Year in Review
The First Verse: Austin Anthem’s Next Song for Austin FC’s First
2020 has been like something out of a Stephen King novel or a bad dream. What started as an exciting new decade with many plans for expanding the size and scope of our events in the penultimate year before Austin FC plays turned into something quite different. To say we miss our Anthem family would be an understatement — Anthem is every one of us, and it has been difficult not seeing all of you.
Even though we have not been able to plan or host many events, 2020 has still been a hectic year. We have been fortunate enough to work with Austin FC and the other supporters in planning for 2021 match days, meet with prospective partners to provide benefits to our fellow Grackles and find ways to benefit the community, and support local businesses throughout the pandemic.
As excitement grows, we’re also seeing more groups forming to support the club in their own way. We think this is great and encourage Anthem members to participate in as many groups as possible. There are many ways to culturally and creatively collaborate to express one’s fandom. As the organization that started all of it back in 2013, we remain focused on being the big tent for all of Austin, no matter your background, lifestyle, soccer knowledge, or favorite taco place. Be respectful, inclusive, and a supporter of Austin FC, and you’ve always got a family with Austin Anthem.
2020 — The Rest of Year (It’s Almost Over)
2020 is not over — but thankfully soon — and there are some things to look forward to:
Our 2021 membership kits are now available, with multiple options and perks for all supporters.
If you’re new to Austin Anthem, our new Membership page talks more in-depth about where we’ve been and where we’re heading.
We will have very-limited events into 2021 for match day planning and sessions for decorating banners and practicing music and chants. Safety first. Keep an eye on our social networks and our newsletter for more information.
2021 — A Look Ahead to Austin FC’s Inaugural Season
This is what we’ve all been waiting for: Austin FC taking the pitch for the first time. For both home and away games, whether you are attending in-person, or watching on TV, Austin Anthem will have events and exciting plans for all members.
We’ve retooled and restructured to focus on match day and member excitement and experiences and make it easier for people to get involved in the organizational team and help us create the traditions and atmosphere that is the best in MLS and showcases the diversity and originality of Austin. The team picks its own leadership in annual elections, and all paid members elect the member representatives.
If you’re interested in joining the organizational team it’s a simple two-step process to get started:
Some of the areas you can help out with:
- Match Days
- Philanthropy / Community
- Cultural Committees
- Ops/Events
- Member Outreach and Inclusion
- General volunteering
- Technical
- Social Media / News / Promotion
Any questions? Please reach out.
Communication
We also have an all-new website coming out focusing on getting you news, event info and match day plans, and travel for away matches. We’ll also be increasing other communication based on the member survey feedback on how best to reach everyone. Once the season starts, it’ll be important that you can quickly keep up with what’s happening each week.
Partnerships
We’ve had a great opportunity to work with local businesses to see how we can help support them in the uncertain business climate everyone found themselves in. The result is some exciting relationships and some partnerships that will be announced over the next few months. Some are collaborations, some are major partnerships, and some are just ways to help each other out: Our members get a discount or offer; we’re assisting local businesses. More to come on that front in the weeks and months ahead.
Thanks
In a year with far less soccer than we wanted and the year ahead with more soccer than Austin’s ever seen, thank you for supporting with us and supporting the beautiful game.
Happy Holidays!
Austin Anthem is the independent supporters group for Austin FC, the Major League Soccer club of Austin, Texas.
