At BLS Painting, we often talk about precision. We discuss the exactness of a brushstroke, the science of paint adhesion, and the meticulous preparation required to transform a luxury estate. However, in the summer of 2025, our Vice President and Senior Project Manager, Erick Luna, took that same commitment to excellence and applied it to a different kind of canvas: the soccer pitch.
As a local, family-owned company operating since 1995, we believe our responsibility extends far beyond the walls we paint. We are part of the fabric of the Austin community. This past summer, that commitment took the form of coaching and sponsoring three talented 5v5 soccer teams under the Buda FC banner. What followed was a season that mirrored the core values of our company: discipline, leadership, and an uncompromising drive for the top spot.
A Vision for Summer Development
The summer months in Texas are usually associated with heat and relaxation. But for a group of young athletes with a passion for the game, it was a season of intense growth. Erick Luna saw an opportunity to bring together players who wanted to maintain their edge during the off-season. He formed three 5v5 rosters: two 2011 teams and one 2014 team.
This wasn't just a casual weekend hobby. Erick hand-selected players who exhibited a genuine hunger for the sport. The goal was to provide a professional-grade environment where these young athletes could sharpen their skills against the best competition in the region and the nation.
Developing Leaders Through Strategic Autonomy
One of the hallmarks of high-end residential painting is the ability to problem-solve on the fly. Whether it's choosing the right low-VOC finish for a custom interior or managing the logistics of a multi-week exterior project, our team must think independently.
Erick Luna brought this exact philosophy to the soccer field. While he knows the game inside and out, his objective wasn't to dictate every move from the sidelines. Instead, he challenged his players to lead.
- Player-Led Lineups: Erick pushed the teams to analyze their own strengths and weaknesses to create their own starting lineups.
- Strategic Playmaking: During critical moments in a match, players were encouraged to develop and execute their own plays rather than waiting for instructions.
- Independent Thinking: By fostering a culture of autonomy, the players developed leadership skills that will serve them far beyond the soccer field.
"The goal wasn't just to win games," Erick explains. "It was to develop the players' ability to think for themselves. When they are on the field and the pressure is on, they need to trust their instincts and their teammates. That is where true leadership is born."
Community Support: The BLS Painting Commitment
High-level tournament play comes with significant logistical and financial hurdles. Tournament fees, travel expenses, and equipment costs can quickly become a barrier for talented players. This is where the synergy between our business and our community values became most evident.
While many families contributed to the expensive tournament fees, BLS Painting stepped in to ensure that no player was left behind due to financial constraints.
- Direct Sponsorship: BLS Painting graciously donated the balance of all tournament fees for the three teams.
- Travel Assistance: We covered travel fees for several players, ensuring the entire squad could stay together for tournaments outside of the Austin area.
- Professionalism: By treating the youth teams with the same level of investment we bring to our homeowner services, we helped create a sense of pride and professional identity within the club.
At BLS Painting, we believe that providing exceptional craftsmanship in your home is only half of our job. The other half is investing in the future of the communities where we live and work.
A Summer of Unprecedented Success
The results of this collaborative effort were nothing short of extraordinary. Over the course of the summer, the three teams participated in a total of sixteen tournaments. The schedule was grueling, consuming almost every weekend, but the dedication of the players, parents, and coaching staff paid off.
Out of those 16 tournaments, the teams brought home 13 championships.
The "cherry on top" of this incredible run was the final national standings. By the end of the summer, Erick’s three Buda FC teams were ranked in the #1 and #2 spots nationwide. This level of achievement is a testament to what happens when you combine raw talent with disciplined leadership and strong community backing.
Why Local Excellence Matters to You
You might wonder why a premier painting company spends so much time discussing youth soccer. The answer lies in the parallels between the pitch and the properties we service.
Expert Craftsmanship
Just as a championship soccer team requires hours of disciplined practice, a flawless interior finish requires a team that understands the nuances of prep work, priming, and top-coat application. We bring that same "championship" mindset to every home we enter.
Exceptional Attention to Detail
In a 5v5 match, the space is tight and every decision matters. This mirrors our approach to cabinet finishing and trim work. We don't overlook the small things because we know that the smallest details are what separate a "good" job from a "masterpiece."
Clear Communication
Erick's coaching style relies on clear, honest communication with his players. We mirror this in our business by providing transparent estimates, clear project timelines, and constant updates throughout your home renovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does BLS Painting offer sponsorship for other local Austin organizations?
We are deeply committed to the Austin area. While we cannot sponsor every request, we prioritize youth development and local community initiatives that align with our values of leadership and excellence.
How does Erick Luna balance his role as VP with community coaching?
At BLS Painting, we prioritize efficiency and professional management. Erick’s ability to manage complex painting projects is exactly what allows him to organize and lead successful sports programs: it’s all about disciplined time management and a great team.
Can I get an estimate for my home while the summer season is active?
Absolutely. Our professional service rivals bigger companies in terms of responsiveness. Our project managers and crews operate year-round to ensure your exterior painting or interior refresh is completed on schedule.
Transform Your Home with a Winning Team
Whether we are leading a youth soccer team to a national ranking or revitalizing a historic estate in Tarrytown, our goal remains the same: to be the best at what we do. When you choose BLS Painting, you aren't just hiring a contractor; you are partnering with a local, family-oriented company that cares about the community as much as you do.
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We proudly service Old Enfield, Tarrytown, Barton Creek, Pemberton Heights, Spanish Oaks subdivisions in Austin along with estate properties in Westlake, Rollingwood, Lakeway, Bee Caves, Driftwood, Dripping Springs, Spicewood, Buda, and other areas surrounding Austin.