Austin FC have hired Adrian Healey as their executive director of broadcast and content ahead of the 2021 season launch, the club announced Wednesday. He will also serve as the lead English language play-by-play broadcaster for the club for all matches.
Healey, who has broadcast more MLS matches as the lead play-by-play voice (over 250) than anyone in ESPN history, will remain with the network until December 2020 before relocating to Texas. Upon joining the club, Healey will lead Austin FC’s English-language broadcasts when they begin MLS action next year
“I'm beyond excited,” Healey said in a statement. “Austin FC has put all the right pieces in place to be a sensational addition to MLS. Austin is dynamic, diverse and culturally thriving, and it is already a vibrant soccer city.
“To be offered a front row seat to the debut of Austin FC was a unique and alluring opportunity. My profound thanks go to ESPN for enabling this move, and I will continue to contribute to its coverage periodically. From December, my focus, my soccer and my life becomes Austin. I’m verde now.”
Healey’s radio career domestically began in Boston, and in 1998 he began working for the New England Revolution as their play-by-play commentator and studio host for TV and radio. He moved to ESPN in June 2003, and has since worked six MLS Cups, as well as several UEFA Champions League and FIFA World Cup finals amid an expansive international portfolio.
“Adrian’s broadcast accomplishments place him in elite company within our sport, and we are honored to have such a talented commentator lead Austin FC’s broadcast team,” Austin FC president Andy Loughnane said. “Adrian will bring a wealth of experience to our English-language broadcast coverage, and just as importantly, Adrian will become a key contributor across a variety of Austin FC content and outreach platforms.”
One of the most decorated play-by-player broadcasters in American soccer history, Healey was ESPN’s lead MLS play-by-play commentator from 2011-18. He’s covered several other leagues for ESPN’s soccer coverage, and now tackles a new project in Austin.
