FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2, 2026

HTX USL Academy Opens Inaugural Season with Hard-Fought Draw Against San Antonio FC

The HTX USL Academy kicked off its season with a determined performance, earning a 1-1 draw against San Antonio FC in the club's first-ever USL Academy league match.

While the result marked an important milestone on the field, the occasion represented something even bigger for the HTX Soccer community. The squad featured a unique blend of current players, college athletes, alumni, and former HTX players from across the club's 20-year history, creating a special atmosphere and showcasing the strength of the club's player development pathway.

The match provided a valuable opportunity for players to compete alongside and learn from different generations of HTX talent. Current academy players gained firsthand experience playing with athletes who have continued their soccer journeys at the collegiate level and beyond, while former players had the chance to reconnect with the club that helped shape their development.

One of the most exciting aspects of the evening was seeing current ECNL players sharing the field with former HTX players and college athletes. The experience highlighted the long-term impact of the club's development environment and demonstrated the opportunities available to players throughout their soccer careers.

Despite facing a strong opponent, the U20 squad showed tremendous character, resilience, and togetherness throughout the match. The group's collective effort and commitment laid a positive foundation for the remainder of the USL Academy season and reflected the values that have defined HTX Soccer for the past two decades.

As the season continues, the club looks forward to building on this performance over the summer and continuing its development journey through the remaining seven league matches. With a talented and diverse roster representing multiple generations of HTX players, the future is bright for the USL Academy program. The inaugural match was more than just the start of a new season, it was a celebration of the HTX community, its history, and its commitment to developing players both on and off the field.

"We are proud of the effort and commitment the players showed in our first USL Academy match," said Coach Radojica Ristic. "What made the evening especially meaningful was seeing current ECNL players, college players, and HTX alumni from different generations come together on the field. It reflects the strength of the pathway we have built over the last 20+ years and provides a fantastic opportunity for our younger players to learn from those who have come before them. This is just the beginning, and we are excited for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead over the remaining seven games this summer."

Team Schedule:

Squad: Carson Alldredge, Miguel Becerra (GK), Kainoa Carlsward, Alexis Cruz, Nolan Eisler, Derek Escobedo, Ty Fernandez, Sina Ghanavati (GK), Landon Guenther, Isaac Guillory, Logan Joy, Christian Martinez, Cezar Onut, Cameron Phillips, Owen Rodgers, Nick Schall, Nicolas Suarez, Harry Coombs

Coaching Staff: Head Coach - Radojica Ristic, Assistant Coaches - Stuart Fitzsimons, Hector Galan, Benito Kemble, GK Coach - Mauricio Leon.

To find an HTX Soccer program near you for any age or experience level, visit www.htxsoccer.com

About HTX Soccer

HTX Soccer is the largest youth soccer club in the Greater Houston area, with over 8,500 players ranging from recreational to elite levels, ages 3 to 19. Serving a 100-mile radius from Downtown Houston, HTX represents the true heart of soccer in the city and its surrounding communities. Since 2006, HTX has helped more than 810 players advance to collegiate soccer, more than any other club in the region. The club has also seen 67 players selected for youth national team activities, and 17 players go on to play professionally around the world.

HTX’s elite boys’ teams compete in the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL), while the elite girls’ teams participate in the Girls Academy (G.A.) League, both top-tier platforms in U.S. youth soccer.

HTX Soccer is proud to be home to:
🏆 2026 U13 Girls Academy Champions Cup Finalists
🏆 2025 U15 Girls Academy Champions Cup National Finalists
🏆 2025 U19 Girls Academy Champions Cup National Champions
🏆 🏆 Back-to-back USYS U13 Girls National Champions (2024 & 2025)

HTX continues to set the standard for youth soccer development and competition locally, regionally, and nationally.

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