With fall MLS GO leagues in full swing, we’re looking back at one of our favorite summer moments: MLS All-Star Week in Austin. Families and kids gathered at Auditorium Shores in Austin as MLS GO hosted a weekend of soccer and activities. From pick-up games on the mini pitch to walking players out at the MLS NEXT All-Star Game presented by Allstate, youth players got a closer look at the game and the players who inspire them.
Soccer Celebration at Auditorium Shores
On Saturday, July 19, and Sunday, July 20, more than 500 kids played on the MLS GO mini pitch at Soccer Celebration, with more than 1,500 visitors stopping by the Kids Zone overall. The pitch stayed busy with pick-up games, and kids also rotated through a warm-up station, a coloring station, and a 360 photo booth.
A highlight of the weekend was Austin FC midfielder Ilie Sánchez, who not only signed autographs but also joined the kids on the pitch. For many families, watching a two-time MLS All-Star play side-by-side with their kids made the event even more memorable.
MLS NEXT All-Star Game
After a busy weekend, MLS GO players had another big role on Monday, July 21, escorting MLS NEXT players onto the field for the MLS NEXT All-Star Game presented by Allstate. The match was held at Palmer Field in front of a sold-out crowd of 2,257 fans, the largest in the event’s history.
The audience extended beyond the stadium as well, with the broadcast drawing thousands of views on YouTube. Adding to the moment, MLS NEXT captains wore armbands designed earlier this year by MLS GO participants from the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Rhode Island.
MLS All-Star Skills Challenge
The week continued on Tuesday, July 22, at Q2 Stadium with the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge presented by AT&T. Five MLS GO athletes walked MLS NEXT Pro goalkeepers onto the field for the Goalie Wars competition—a fan favorite of the night—and even had the chance to high five YouTube creator IShowSpeed.
Looking Back
From community pick-up games to sold-out stadiums, MLS GO players had the chance to be part of All-Star Week in ways that went beyond the stands. These moments showed how meaningful it is when kids can play, participate, and see the game up close.
Want to bring that same opportunity to your community?
