Copa Tejas: About Us

* Copa Tejas was founded by SAFC Supporters Steve Arters and Danielle Gawronski in 2019. In 2021, Copa Tejas "graduated" to MLS, creating a unique soccer trophy that features a custom design.  

* Copa Tejas stands out as the only award in the U.S. that recognizes teams from both the MLS and USL Championship in the same state, promoting friendly MLS USL competition.  

* Copa Tejas fosters cooperation and camaraderie among various supporters groups across Texas. The trophy has established two Advisory Boards for both Texas MLS and USL Championship teams, comprising leaders from supporters groups in Austin, Dallas, El Paso, Houston, and San Antonio.

Enhance the MLS USL competition in Texas by promoting “The Beautiful Game” of soccer across the top two divisions (D1, D2, Men’s and Women’s) and unifying supporters groups Texas by presenting a soccer trophy to the winner of the derby in each division. Additionally, foster camaraderie, friendships, and cooperation among all of the state’s SGs through pre-game tailgates, gameday experiences, and post-game celebrations.

Everything is bigger in Texas:  

Innovation is our solution. With the MLS and USL competition heating up, rivalries in different leagues at the professional level are intense. U.S. Soccer has sanctioned D1 and D2 men’s and women’s leagues, ensuring head-to-head matchups during the regular season. We are stronger together than we are apart. So, who is the best in Texas? The Copa Tejas soccer trophy will determine the champion.  

People (Supporters) are our value:  

We respect everyone and encourage diversity and belonging among supporters groups in Texas. The battle may occur amongst the teams on the field, but we celebrate as a community before and after the whistle. Decisions will always be made in conjunction with the SGs’ selected representatives.