Austin, Texas – If you've ever wondered what the prototypical Austin FC fan looks like, look no further than Roma Desai.

When you think of what defines a true fan, what comes to mind? Is it the person that travels far and wide to attend the games, or is It simply defined by someone who showers the team with unwavering love and support despite the results on the pitch?

No matter what preconceived notions you have of fandoms across sports, it's strikingly undeniable that Desai emulates everything it means to be a day one supporter of Austin FC, and her actions prove as such.

Six years ago, Desai decided to pack up her life in Pennsylvania and move to the capital city. Off the bat, she got involved in the MLS2ATX movement in hopes of bringing an MLS expansion team to Austin, Texas.

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During Austin FC's inaugural season, Desai had one goal in mind: to support the team whenever she could, no matter where that might take her.

Fast-forward to the present day, and Desai completed a feat she never set out to accomplish, solely by attending all 34 games this season – both home and away.

"It honestly just happened, I never set out to do that. I mean, it was awesome, and I loved doing it, and I think a lot of people would want to do that," Desai explained. "Like a lot of people, I was just super excited."

When speaking to TAG24 News, Desai said that she didn't even expect to get into the gates for the team's first game ever against Los Angeles FC in April. For her and the several other fans who took the flight out to the golden coast, it was simply enough to be in the same city to support the players from afar any way they could.

Luckily, the bunch was able to score tickets to cheer on Austin FC during their first match, providing an experience of a lifetime and planting a seed of possibility.

Not only did she attend every game during the team's inaugural season, but the Scranton, Pennsylvania native was honored with a Distinguished Service Award from Mayor Steve Adler on December 9 for doing so, something she found out about just one week in advance.

"It was incredible, I mean, I'm extremely honored, but I don't feel like I deserve it singularly," Desai said, confirming two values the Austin FC community has become known for – unity and inclusivity.

"There are so many stories that have come out of this inaugural season that have been, like, amazing and inspiring, and I think that takes a community effort."

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Various members of the Austin FC community attended or streamed the award ceremony at Austin City Hall, creating a full-circle moment for Desai and those who worked tirelessly to bring the Verde and Black to Austin, Texas.

"It was cool to be back at City Hall, too, because a lot of the community had been there, I had gone for some of those crucial votes, or I had watched a lot of it on streams, and many of the people who were there – or were watching – were part of that, too."

Despite the antics and often less-than-stellar opinions from opposing MLS fans on Twitter, Desai noted most cities were welcoming of – if not slightly caught off guard by – Austin FC's presence at away games.

"They were always surprised to see supporters from Austin, because they were just like, 'Oh my god, you guys came all the way from Austin, that's amazing,'" Desai said.

Despite a rather lackluster inaugural season, Desai isn't spending too much time dwelling on what could've been, but rather looking ahead with higher hopes for the team's second season as a cohesive club.

"Obviously better than this first season is always the goal, but I think there's no doubt to me, they can be a playoff team, and I hope to see them there."

Austin FC's 2022 season kicks off with a home opener against Cincinnati FC at Q2 Stadium on February 26 at 5 PM CST.