Almost forgot to mention in this month's issue we have a feature story on A.J. Godbolt of the Austin Aztex. He is the son of Bucky Godbolt on AM1300-The Zone. The younger Godbolt has an interesting story, but the team he plays for is quickly becoming a very interesting story of its own on the Austin sports scene.
I have to admit, months ago when I first learned of the new Austin Aztex, I was skeptical. I've seen other "professional" soccer teams come and go in this town. In fact, we've covered a couple of them in our pages. I figured the Aztex wouldn't be any different.
I can happily admit, I was dead wrong.
The Aztex are averaging around 1,500 fans per game this season and this past Sunday they pulled in an impressive 4,700-plus crowd against one of the top Mexican team's, UANL Tigres. I know two other professional franchises in town that can only dream of pulling in those kinds of numbers.
Just after the team was announced earlier this year owner Phil Rawlins told me three things: 1) Austin was a hotbed for soccer talent, 2) Austin was a great soccer market and 3) they would do well in the Capital City. Thus far, he's been exactly right on all counts.
Talentwise, the team, which is comprised of amateur players 23 years old and under, has played exceptionally well losing on penalty kicks to the Atlanta Silverbacks (a USL division 1 squad) several weeks back, and losing a close one on Sunday night to the Tigres, 2-1. That's very impressive for a first-year squad and an organization that had mere months to get ready for the season. Currently, the Aztex sit atop the standings in their division and are almost a lock for the playoffs.
Imagine what the future holds for next season as a full USL Division 1 squad.
I'm a believer.
