Austin Emerald Turning Pro with Move up to MLIS

The Austin Emerald announced today that they are moving into the professional ranks with a membership in Major League Indoor Soccer.

The Emerald made their debut last season in the Premier Arena Soccer League and are ready to take things to the next level.

"We wanted to join MLIS because we want to give the players and community in Austin the highest grade of indoor soccer exposure and experience possible," said Austin Emerald co-owner Kyler Moore. "Our players deserve the opportunity to improve and showcase their abilities at the highest level possible, and we are passionate about providing that.

"Subsequently, the community in Austin is so passionate about soccer, and they deserve to have a team to root for, look up to, and support in the Austin area. MLIS provides a platform that matches the level of quality and professionalism that we strive to provide."

Austin will still have a PASL team, but now players can take higher aim with a shot at the MLIS professional level within their reach.

Moore played for the PASL's Springfield Demize for several seasons, winning a national title in 2020, and gaining valuable experience in operations along the way. Emerald co-owner Stephen Carpenter played for M2's Amarillo Bombers before co-founding the Emerald in 2021. But now, the work is just beginning.

"We are constantly looking for ways to improve on and off the field," says Moore. "We know that we have many lengths to stride to accomplish what we want in our family here. Coming into our second season as a team, many of our players have completed their first full season of playing indoor soccer at a competitive level, so they now have a great understanding of how different this game is. We are more prepared in every aspect possible."

The Emerald will play their home games at SoccerZone South Austin and Moore can't wait to get going. "We want to build on the success of last season. Jumping to such a quality league with quality teams is going to be a challenge, and that is exactly why we are here. We will be a difficult team to play against with energy, work ethic, and smiles on our faces."