10 Things to Be Thankful for This Thanksgiving
(image via Ricky Vega)
Happy Thanksgiving from all of here at Bayou City Soccer. As we celebrate the holiday with loved ones and plenty of food, here are 10 things you can be grateful for in the Houston soccer scene.
1. Houston Dynamo’s Playoff Return
The Dynamo have shown strong form since Ben Olsen took over as head coach. With key players like Aliyu Ibrahim and Coco Carrasquilla leading the charge, the team brings excitement to every match. They are now consistently making playoff appearances and competing in every competition, what fans have long been asking for. The club is once again a force in MLS, with hopes of another playoff push next season as they hunt for more trophies.
2. Emergence of Young Talent
Players like Lawrence Ennali and Brooklyn Raines are stepping up, giving fans hope for the future while highlighting the club’s development pipeline and the effectiveness of its scouting department. General Manager Pat Onstad and Technical Director Asher Mendelsohn have emphasized that the next step this offseason is to make the squad younger, faster, and stronger. As a result, the recruiting process will take center stage, giving fans the chance to evaluate how the Dynamo’s efforts compare to other teams in the league at uncovering talent.
3. Houston Dash’s Competitive Edge
The Dash continue to represent women’s soccer with pride, competing fiercely in the NWSL and inspiring fans across the city. Despite numerous off-field frustrations and challenges, the players gave their all on the field throughout the season. While the players’ effort is unquestionable, uncertainty remains on the leadership side of the club. When will a general manager be hired? Will a head coach be appointed in time to implement the necessary changes to make the team competitive before the season begins? These are the pressing questions that need answers.
4. Diverse Fan Culture
Houston’s vibrant and diverse fan base makes the city a unique hub for soccer culture, blending traditions from around the world. This rich diversity is one of the reasons Houston has been selected as a host city for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Numerous supporter groups for leagues like the EPL, La Liga, and Bundesliga gather weekly to watch their favorite clubs in action. Events such as the Women’s Gold Cup and Copa América have also highlighted Houston’s multicultural spirit, with fans proudly showcasing their national pride throughout the city.
5. Shell Energy Stadium Atmosphere
The game-day experience at Shell Energy Stadium is electric, featuring passionate fans, pre-game festivities, and a family-friendly environment. Houston’s soccer fan base is strong, but it endured many difficult years. In 2024, the stadium was rarely at full capacity, even when the club reported sellouts. For example, the stands were about 90% full during the Dynamo regular season finale against the LA Galaxy, but the atmosphere was unmatched. The energy and support from the crowd drove the team to keep fighting and ultimately secure the winning goal deep into added time. That intensity is just a glimpse of what Houston fans can offer both the Dynamo and the Dash. Looking ahead, this enthusiasm is likely to grow in the coming years.
6. Increased Soccer Accessibility
Youth programs and community outreach initiatives are making soccer more accessible to kids in Houston, inspiring the next generation. Organizations like the Houston Youth Soccer Association (HYSA) provide pathways to meet players’ needs at every level, from recreational leagues to national competitions. Member clubs such as Katy Premier FC, Pearland SC, and Texas United FC offer opportunities for young players to compete and fall in love with the sport. Additionally, organizations like HTX, SG1, and MAFC Academy focus on player development through professional soccer training in the greater Houston area. For those over 18 who want to play casually, Houston’s numerous parks often host pick-up games. Soccer continues to build and unite communities.
7. International Friendlies
Houston frequently hosts exciting international friendlies, bringing global soccer stars and teams to the city for unforgettable matches. Recent highlights include Guatemala facing Venezuela at Shell Energy Stadium, Manchester United taking on Real Madrid, and El Clásico Mexicano at NRG Stadium. The city’s pride in hosting such events is evident, with each match becoming a unique celebration of soccer fandom. Soccer is massive in the Bayou City, and every event feels like an outright party.
8. Strong Community Support
Houston’s soccer community rallies behind both professional teams and grassroots efforts, fostering a tight-knit and supportive environment. While there have been challenges over the past 20 years, the relationship between the city’s professional clubs and their fans appears to be strengthening. Soccer is deeply ingrained in Houston’s identity, but nurturing this passion requires ongoing effort. With care and investment, the rewards—a thriving soccer culture—will be well worth it.
9. Investment in Facilities
Upgrades to training centers and local soccer fields highlight Houston’s commitment to growing the sport, spurred in part by preparations for the upcoming World Cup. Beyond the fields, EaDo has experienced a boom thanks to Shell Energy Stadium and the influx of soccer fans it draws. Venues like Pitch 25, Truck Yard, and Brass Tacks have become neighborhood staples, reflecting the area’s vibrant soccer culture. Additionally, HDFC has built mini-pitches throughout the city, hosting small tournaments to increase soccer’s visibility and community engagement.
10. Media Coverage Growth
Local media attention on soccer is growing, helping the sport reach broader audiences as anticipation builds for the World Cup. While major outlets cover the Houston Dynamo and Dash during successful campaigns, independent media organizations remain dedicated to reporting on Houston’s professional soccer scene year-round. Supporting local, independent media is vital to this growth. At Bayou City Soccer, we’re proud to bring you the latest updates and deeply appreciate your continued support as we champion the sport in our city.
Houston’s soccer scene is thriving, offering plenty of reasons for fans to be excited and optimistic.
