AUSTIN, Texas — Austin FC is kicking off its sixth season this Saturday, and while fans are eager to see the players take the pitch, they’re not the only ones stepping into the spotlight.
Through its continued partnership with Austin Pets Alive!, the club is once again shining a light on an adoptable pup as the official “Mascot of the Match” — a game-day tradition helping local pets find their forever homes.
Sierra Waggoner and Trevor Scott sat down with Suzie Chase, Community Affairs Officer, to talk about how this meaningful collaboration brings together soccer fans and animal lovers across the Verde community.
Sierra Waggoner and Trevor Scott sat down with Suzie Chase, Community Affairs Officer, to talk about how this meaningful collaboration brings together soccer fans and animal lovers across the Verde community.
“It has truly been a life-saving and impactful partnership. In 2020, before the inaugural season, Austin FC approached Austin Pets Alive and said instead of having a big costumed mascot, they wanted an adoptable dog from Austin Pets Alive. We are so happy that Austin FC has continued this partnership for the next five seasons,” Chase said.
Each home match gives one adoptable dog the chance to walk out in front of thousands of fans, gaining visibility — and often, a second chance at life.
This week’s Mascot of the Match is Fit-Bit, an adoptable pup ready to find a loving family.
This week’s Mascot of the Match is Fit-Bit, an adoptable pup ready to find a loving family.
“He is just really sweet. He’s great on leash, great with kids, and he’s living in a foster home right now with a family. Everyone can come meet him — we’ll be in Section 136 about an hour before the match begins so fans can see if Fit-Bit would be a good fit in their home,” Chase said.
Leaders say the partnership has already created heartwarming success stories, with several featured pets finding homes thanks to their time in the spotlight.
“About 90% of the animals we take in at Austin Pets Alive were scheduled to be euthanized at other shelters. We have so many incredible stories. One of my favorites happened at the end of last season — the head coach’s wife and children escorted puppies to a match with me, and 48 hours later they called and said they saw a dog on our website they wanted to adopt. They adopted Paco,” Chase said.
And it’s not just dogs — Austin Pets Alive! also has cats available for adoption, including animals with unique medical needs.
“We love our cats, too. At Austin Pets Alive, we take in cats with all different kinds of medical needs. I’m proud to say we have taken in and adopted out more incontinent cats than any other shelter in the United States,” Chase said.
As Austin FC begins a new season, the partnership is a reminder that being Verde means more than cheering from the stands — it’s about supporting the entire Austin community.
For more information about adopting Fit-Bit or other animals, visit Austin Pets Alive! online.
For more information about adopting Fit-Bit or other animals, visit Austin Pets Alive! online.