The Austin Outlaws is a full-contact women’s football team and a proud member of the Women’s Football Alliance (WFA), which has over 60 teams across the country. The team competes in the American Conference Southwest Division II, playing against some of the best women’s football teams in the U.S. Known for their skill on the field and their commitment to community service, the Outlaws regularly participate in charity games and fundraising events, supporting local non-profits and elementary schools.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Austin Outlaws’ history and their impact both on and off the field.
History of the Austin Outlaws
The Austin Outlaws was founded in 2001 in Austin, Texas. Since then, they have grown into a formidable presence in women’s football. They initially joined the Independent Women’s Football League (IWFL) and made an impressive start by finishing their debut season with a 5-1 record. This success qualified them for the first-ever IWFL championship game. In their second season, they built on their momentum with a 7-2 record, earning a spot in the playoffs. However, they were defeated by the New York Sharks in the championship game after beating the Corvallis Pride in the qualifiers.
In 2003, the Outlaws made a strategic decision to move to the National Women’s Football Association (NWFA), where they spent six seasons. The first season was a learning experience for the team, as they played an exhibition schedule and finished with a 1-1 record. The following season, they became full members of the NWFA and finished with a solid 5-3 record, though they narrowly missed the playoffs.
The 2005 season saw them finish with a 4-4 record, which placed them ninth in the Southern Division, again missing the playoffs. In 2006, they bounced back, finishing 6-2 and earning a spot in the postseason, but their playoff run ended with a 23-6 loss to the Chattanooga Locomotion in the first round.
Despite their strong efforts, the Outlaws faced challenges over the next two seasons. In 2007, they finished second in their division with a 5-3 record, missing the playoffs once more. The following year, they repeated their 5-3 performance but again missed postseason action. This was a turning point for the team, as they announced their move to the Women’s Football Alliance (WFA) after the 2008 season.
Joining the WFA in 2009 proved to be a great decision for the Outlaws. That year, they finished with an impressive 7-1 record, earning them a division championship. Though they ultimately lost to the Jacksonville Dixie Blues in the playoffs, the season was a success, especially with the team defeating the Lone Star Mustangs twice—a notable achievement for the team.
Recent Seasons
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Since their initial success in the WFA, the Austin Outlaws have remained competitive. Although the team has had its share of ups and downs, they continue to build a strong program and maintain a loyal fan base. Their commitment to women’s football has earned them respect, not only for their on-field performance but also for their involvement in local causes.
The team actively supports community initiatives by participating in fundraisers and charity events. They have played exhibition games to support local schools and non-profit organizations, further solidifying their role as a team that values giving back to the Austin community.
Chaparral Stadium and Westlake High School
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The Austin Outlaws play their home games at Chaparral Stadium, located on the campus of Westlake High School in Austin, Texas. This stadium, which opened in 1970, is a multi-purpose facility that hosts not only football games but also track and field events and soccer matches. With a seating capacity of up to 10,000 spectators, Chaparral Stadium provides a great venue for fans to cheer on the Outlaws during their home games.
Westlake High School, part of the Eanes Independent School District (ISD), has earned national recognition for academic excellence. It was named one of the top high schools in the United States by Newsweek in 2011. The school’s support for the Outlaws has contributed to the team’s ability to thrive in Austin, providing them with a well-maintained stadium and a strong local fan base.
Looking Ahead
As the Austin Outlaws continue to grow, they remain committed to elevating women’s football and inspiring young athletes. The team’s passion for the game, combined with their dedication to the community, sets them apart as leaders both on and off the field. Looking ahead, the Outlaws aim to continue their legacy of success in the Women’s Football Alliance, striving for more championships while continuing to be a positive force in the Austin area.
Conclusion
The Austin Outlaws are more than just a women’s football team. With a strong history in competitive football and a deep commitment to their community, they continue to inspire both on and off the field. As they look to the future, the Outlaws aim to keep growing, both in their sport and in the positive impact they make in Austin.