Austin FC Yeti Collection Combines Team Spirit with Premium Drinkware
New Sponsorship Deal Boosts Team's Resources
Austin FC and YETI have forged a powerful partnership that extends far beyond the soccer pitch. The Austin-based premium outdoor brand has become deeply intertwined with the Major League Soccer club's identity since joining forces in 2021.
YETI serves as the official jersey sponsor for Austin FC, with its logo prominently displayed on the team's Verde and Black kits. This high-profile sponsorship deal has increased YETI's visibility among soccer fans while providing Austin FC with a respected local brand as its primary partner.
The collaboration between Austin FC and YETI encompasses more than just jerseys. YETI produces an extensive line of co-branded merchandise, including Rambler tumblers, water bottles, and coolers adorned with the Austin FC crest. Fans can purchase these items at Q2 Stadium or through online retailers, allowing them to show their support for the club while enjoying YETI's renowned quality and performance.
Austin FC: The Team's Overview
Austin FC has quickly established itself as a prominent force in Major League Soccer. The team's rapid rise, state-of-the-art facilities, and passionate fanbase have made them a notable presence in American soccer.
History and Achievements
Austin FC joined Major League Soccer as an expansion team in 2021. The club was founded in 2018 after years of effort to bring professional soccer to Austin.
In their inaugural season, Austin FC finished 12th in the Western Conference. The team showed significant improvement in 2022, reaching the Western Conference Finals.
Key players like Sebastián Driussi and Diego Fagúndez have been instrumental in the team's success. Austin FC has also focused on developing local talent through their academy system.
Stadium and Facilities
Q2 Stadium serves as the home for Austin FC. The 20,738-seat venue opened in June 2021 and has been praised for its modern design and atmosphere.
The stadium features a 360-degree canopy and optimized sightlines for an immersive fan experience. It incorporates sustainable elements, reflecting Austin's environmental values.
Austin FC's training facility, St. David's Performance Center, opened in April 2021. The 23-acre complex houses four full-size fields and state-of-the-art equipment for player development.
Fan Culture and Support
Austin FC has cultivated a vibrant fan culture since its inception. The team's supporters' group, Austin Anthem, leads chants and creates tifo displays during matches.
The club's verde and black colors are prominently displayed throughout the city on match days. Local businesses often partner with the team for special events and promotions.
Austin FC has embraced the city's musical heritage, featuring live performances at Q2 Stadium. The team's "LISTOS" chant has become an iconic part of the match-day experience.
Yeti: Brand Overview
Yeti has established itself as a leading premium outdoor brand known for high-quality coolers, drinkware, and gear. The company's innovative products and commitment to durability have made it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and casual users alike.
Founding Story and Development
Yeti was founded in 2006 by brothers Roy and Ryan Seiders in Austin, Texas. The siblings, avid outdoorsmen, were frustrated with the poor quality of existing coolers that couldn't withstand their fishing trips. This led them to create a virtually indestructible cooler.
Their first product, the Tundra cooler, quickly gained popularity among fishing and hunting communities. The company's reputation for durability and performance grew rapidly through word-of-mouth marketing.
Yeti expanded its product line and distribution channels over the years. In 2012, they introduced their now-iconic Rambler drinkware series. The company went public in 2018, solidifying its position as a major player in the outdoor equipment industry.
Product Range and Innovation
Yeti's product range extends far beyond its original coolers. The company now offers:
Hard and soft coolers
Drinkware (tumblers, mugs, bottles)
Bags and backpacks
Camping gear (chairs, blankets)
Pet products
Innovation remains at Yeti's core. Their products feature patented technologies like PermaFrost Insulation and MagSlider Lids. These advancements ensure superior ice retention and temperature control.
Yeti continually refines its designs based on customer feedback and real-world testing. This approach has led to the development of specialized products like the LoadOut GoBox for gear organization and the Panga submersible duffel bag.
The brand's commitment to quality and functionality has earned it a loyal customer base. Yeti products are now staples for outdoor activities, everyday use, and even professional applications.
Partnership Dynamics
YETI and Austin FC formed a powerful alliance that extends beyond traditional sponsorship. This partnership leverages both brands' strengths to create innovative initiatives and marketing strategies.
Strategic Alliances and Initiatives
YETI secured the position of Official Jersey Partner and Founding Partner for Austin FC. This collaboration goes beyond logo placement, focusing on shared values and community impact. The partnership emphasizes conservation and supporting outdoor lifestyles, aligning with both brands' core principles.
Together, they launched green initiatives at Austin FC's stadium. These include comprehensive recycling, composting, and water refill policies. Such practices demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
The alliance also provides a platform for future collaborative projects. These may involve fan engagement activities, limited-edition products, or community outreach programs.
Marketing Strategies
YETI's logo prominently features on Austin FC's jerseys, providing high visibility during matches and media coverage. This placement reinforces YETI's brand association with sports and outdoor activities.
The partnership utilizes co-branded merchandise to engage fans. Special edition YETI products, such as the Verde-colored Rambler tumbler, create unique collectibles for supporters.
Social media campaigns highlight the partnership, showcasing behind-the-scenes content and player endorsements. These strategies aim to increase brand loyalty and attract new customers from both YETI and Austin FC fanbases.
Joint events and promotions at the stadium enhance fan experiences while promoting YETI products. This approach creates memorable interactions and strengthens the connection between the brands and their audience.
Jerseys and Merchandise
Austin FC offers a wide range of official jerseys and merchandise in partnership with YETI. Fans can find high-quality apparel and accessories featuring the club's iconic verde and black colors.
Design and Features
Austin FC jerseys showcase the team's distinctive verde color with black accents. The primary home kit features a bold verde shirt with black trim, while the away kit reverses this color scheme. YETI's logo prominently appears on the front as the official jersey sponsor.
The jerseys are made with lightweight, breathable materials for player and fan comfort. Authentic versions include advanced moisture-wicking technology and ventilation zones. Replica jerseys offer a more affordable option while maintaining the official look.
Austin FC's badge is prominently displayed on the chest, embodying the club's identity and connection to the city.
Product Lines for Men, Women, and Youth
Austin FC and YETI offer diverse product lines catering to all fans. Men's, women's, and youth sizes are available in both authentic and replica jerseys. The collection extends beyond jerseys to include t-shirts, polo shirts, and hoodies.
YETI produces co-branded drinkware, such as the Verde 20 oz Rambler tumbler, perfect for game days. Headwear options range from adjustable caps to beanies. Novelty items like scarves, flags, and phone cases round out the merchandise selection.
The Verde Store at Q2 Stadium and online platforms provide easy access to the full range of Austin FC gear. Season Ticket Members enjoy discounts on non-match days, enhancing the fan experience.
Sustainability in Sports
Austin FC and YETI have partnered to promote sustainability initiatives in soccer. Their efforts focus on environmental policies and eco-friendly merchandising practices.
Environmental Policies
Q2 Stadium, Austin FC's home venue, has achieved Total Resource Use and Efficiency (TRUE) pre-certification. This makes it the first soccer-specific stadium and second sports venue globally to receive this recognition. The stadium incorporates YETI Hydration Stations, reducing single-use plastic waste.
Austin FC's Evergreen platform, presented by YETI, encourages fans to protect and promote Austin's green spaces. This year-round initiative aligns with the city's commitment to maintaining its vibrant environment.
The club implements recycling and composting programs throughout the stadium. Water refill policies are in place to minimize plastic bottle usage.
Sustainable Practices in Merchandising
YETI, as Austin FC's official jersey partner, integrates sustainability into team merchandise. They launched a series of outdoor lifestyle products featuring the Austin FC badge at retail locations.
The partnership extends to digital platforms, with YETI incorporated into eSports arena jerseys and EA SPORTS FIFA gaming products featuring Austin FC.
YETI products are integrated throughout Austin FC's stadium, promoting reusable alternatives to single-use items. This collaboration emphasizes the importance of eco-friendly merchandise in sports.
Fan Experience
Austin FC fans enjoy a vibrant atmosphere at Q2 Stadium, with plenty of opportunities to engage with the club. The Verde Store offers a wide selection of official merchandise for supporters to show their team spirit.
Game Day Activities
Q2 Stadium buzzes with energy on match days. Fans arrive early to tailgate in the parking lots, enjoying food, drinks, and camaraderie. Inside the stadium, supporters can visit YETI water stations to fill up reusable containers. The club allows empty 30-ounce or smaller reusable drink vessels, promoting sustainability and fan comfort.
The stadium features state-of-the-art amenities, including large video boards and a high-quality sound system. Austin FC encourages an active fan culture, with designated supporter sections leading chants and songs throughout the match. Interactive displays and photo opportunities are available for fans to capture memories of their game day experience.
Verde Store Shopping Guide
The Verde Store at Q2 Stadium is a one-stop shop for Austin FC merchandise. Located in the north corner of the stadium, it offers free parking for convenient access. The store is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., allowing fans to shop even on non-game days.
YETI products feature prominently in the Verde Store's offerings. Fans can purchase Austin FC-branded Rambler tumblers and mugs in the club's signature verde color. These items are popular among supporters and can be used at the stadium.
For online shoppers, the club's website provides a user-friendly platform to browse and order merchandise. Fans can select free pickup at the Verde Store when purchasing through verdevan.com, combining the convenience of online shopping with the option to collect items in person.
Shopping and Services
Austin FC fans have multiple options for purchasing official YETI gear and accessing customer support. The partnership between the two brands offers a range of products and services to enhance the fan experience.
Purchasing Channels
YETI offers Austin FC merchandise through several channels. The Verde Store, located at Q2 Stadium, features a dedicated YETI section with exclusive co-branded products. Fans can find jerseys, drinkware, and other gear in team colors.
YETI's online store provides a convenient option for those unable to visit the physical location. The Austin FC Custom Drinkware section offers insulated cups, tumblers, and bottles in verde, black, and white colors.
Seasonal promotions and discounts are occasionally available, allowing fans to save on their purchases. Limited edition items may be released periodically, often at regular price points.
Customer Support and Warranty
YETI provides robust customer support for Austin FC branded products. Fans can contact the company directly for assistance with orders, shipping inquiries, or product information.
Returns are accepted within a specified timeframe, subject to the company's policies. YETI offers tracking services for online orders, allowing customers to monitor their shipments.
Product warranties cover manufacturing defects, ensuring quality and durability. YETI's reputation for excellent customer service extends to their Austin FC line, giving fans peace of mind with their purchases.
For specific warranty details or support needs, customers can refer to YETI's official website or contact their customer service team directly.
Engagement and Community
YETI and Austin FC have forged strong connections with local fans and residents. Their partnership extends beyond the field to create positive impacts throughout the Austin area.
Community Outreach Programs
Austin FC and YETI collaborate on initiatives to give back to the community. They organize park cleanups and restoration projects to preserve Austin's natural spaces. The club and brand also partner on food drives to support local food banks.
YETI provides custom-designed coolers and drinkware for Austin FC's community events. This helps raise awareness for charitable causes while showcasing both brands. The partners host meet-and-greets with players at YETI's flagship store, allowing fans to connect with their soccer heroes.
Youth Engagement
Austin FC runs youth soccer camps sponsored by YETI across the city. These camps teach soccer skills while promoting an active lifestyle. YETI provides water bottles and coolers to keep young players hydrated.
The club's academy teams sport YETI-branded jerseys during matches and tournaments. This exposure helps cultivate the next generation of Austin FC supporters. YETI and Austin FC jointly fund scholarships for promising young players from underserved communities.
E-sports tournaments organized by the partners give tech-savvy youth opportunities to represent Austin FC virtually. These events build connections with younger fans through gaming.
