Press Items: Senator Judith Zaffirini — District 21

AUSTIN, TX – Community leaders, families and young athletes gathered Thursday (Feb. 5) to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the Dean Senator Judith Zaffirini Mini-Pitch in Austin. The project was created in partnership with the U.S. Soccer Foundation, the Zaffirini Family Foundation and the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area.

The new mini-pitch provides a high-quality space for children to stay active after school, build confidence and develop teamwork and leadership skills. For many Club members, access to safe recreational space is limited. The mini-pitch ensures they have a safe environment where they can play, connect with mentors and strengthen both physical and social development.

The Austin mini-pitch is the second in Texas named for Dean Senator Judith Zaffirini. It reflects her longstanding commitment to investing in youth-centered spaces that strengthen neighborhoods and expand opportunity.

“This mini-pitch helps ensure young Texans have opportunities to grow, lead and succeed,” Dean Senator Zaffirini said. “Thanks to my son, Carlos Zaffirini Jr., a member of the U.S. Soccer Foundation Board, whose generous support made this space possible for the children and families served by the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area.”

Attendees included Ed Foster-Simeon, President and CEO of the U.S. Soccer Foundation; State Rep. Sheryl Cole (D-Austin); State Rep. Lulu Flores (D-Austin); Travis County Judge Andy Brown; Travis County Constable, Precinct One, Tonya Nixon; Travis County Constable, Precinct Four, George Morales; Austin City Council Member, District Four, José “Chito” Vela; and Austin Police Department Assistant Chief JJ Schmidt.

The U.S. Soccer Foundation’s mini-pitch program has transformed underutilized spaces across the country into safe play environments designed to increase physical activity and youth engagement. By bringing this initiative to Austin, community partners are helping ensure local children have access to high-quality recreational facilities that promote health, resilience and teamwork.

Dean Senator Zaffirini, a communication specialist, businesswoman and former educator, has dedicated her career to expanding educational opportunity and strengthening communities across Texas. During the 89th Texas Legislature’s Regular Session, she passed a record-breaking 135 bills, making her the highest bill-passing legislator for six consecutive sessions. She also holds a state and national record of having cast 76,843 consecutive votes and passing 1,524 bills, the highest total in Texas history.

About the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area (BGCAA) is Austin’s leading out-of-school time youth development agency, currently serving more than 18,000 youth ages 5 to 18 at 27 locations across the Austin area, including the Home Club on the Sheth Family Campus. Operating since 1967, BGCAA employs a formula for impact rooted in high-quality programming and services in health and well-being, character and leadership, academic success and life and workforce readiness. Club youth participate in high-impact development programs that, when compared to non-Club youth, result in better school attendance, better grades, higher graduation rates, and a better likelihood of attending college. Through support from local individuals, businesses and BGCAA Staff, Club youth are given the tools and opportunities to create great futures.

Photo Credit: The Office of Dean Senator Judith Zaffirini

Community leaders and young athletes gather to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the Dean Senator Judith Zaffirini Mini-Pitch at the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area.

###