Preseason training camp has officially started for Austin FC. A group of 23 rostered players, a couple unsigned draft picks, and three non-rostered (i.e., non-Verde) players, will take part in six weeks of training led by Coach Wolff. All practices are held at St. Ed’s University, but are closed to media and fans. It will also be the site for scrimmages against USL sides OKC Energy (March 19) and Louisville City FC (March 25).

Five days before training camp, Austin FC made deals for two more players (one a complete surprise!). Rumors about inking defender Žan Kolmanič had been out for weeks thanks to Slovenian reports, while news about midfielder Sebastian Berhalter’s signing came out of nowhere, except for a teaser tweeted by owner Anthony Precourt, just hours after Zan’s announcement. If our calculations are right, including Berhalter, that’s seven rostered players with ties to the Columbus Crew. Both young players come in on loan and are expected to back up veteran MLS players, Ben Sweat and Alex Ring respectively.

Adrian Healey, Executive Director of Broadcast and Content, welcomed former pro soccer player Michael Lahoud to the broadcast booth as ATXFC’s English language color analyst. Almost immediately after the hiring, the new duo dipped their toes into the local TV broadcast scene for the first time together, commentating the Texas Longhorn vs. Texas State game on ESPN’s Longhorn Network. A sideline reporter is expected to be named soon to complete the English language broadcast team for regional games.

One thought…we’re all anxiously waiting for the 2021 MLS schedule to see who Austin FC plays in its inaugural match — our bet is on Seattle or LAFC.

HOT LINKS

Check out some of the latest updates going on outside the stadium, including a new road, signage, and the terrace park.