1972 Pub: Austin’s First and Only Women’s Sports Bar

Young woman playing billiards indoors, focusing on her next shot under dim lights.

In the heart of Austin, just steps from the University of Texas campus, 1972 Pub has quickly become a landmark for sports fans who want something different: a bar that celebrates women’s sports exclusively. Every screen inside is dedicated to athletes who are often underrepresented in mainstream sports media—whether it’s a WNBA showdown, NWSL soccer match, NCAA women’s championship, or an Olympic competition. For anyone searching for a Title IX–inspired sports pub in Austin where women athletes are always the headline, this is the place.

The name 1972 Pub pays tribute to the year Title IX became law, opening doors for countless female athletes. More than just a bar, it’s a community hub where equality in athletics takes center stage. Founders Debra Hallum and Marlene du Plessis envisioned a space where sports fans, athletes, students, and allies could gather to cheer for women’s sports, share in the excitement of big games, and connect over a shared belief in representation.

Step inside and you’ll find a lively, welcoming space decorated with women’s sports memorabilia, vibrant colors, and empowering details that honor athletes across generations. The menu showcases women-owned food and beverage brands, alongside creative cocktails named for sports icons. Whether you’re joining a lively women’s sports watch party, stopping in for brunch before a UT Lady Longhorns game, or grabbing drinks with fellow fans, 1972 Pub blends sports, culture, and community in a way no other bar in Austin does.

Menu & Offerings

1972 Pub has crafted a menu that reflects both quality and community values. Guests can enjoy:

  • Craft cocktails inspired by legendary athletes.
  • Elevated bar food with options for vegetarian, vegan, and non-alcoholic preferences.
  • Weekend brunch favorites, such as steak frites, biscuits and gravy, hushpuppies with elote seasoning, and inventive desserts.

A commitment to sourcing from women-owned businesses, ensuring that every bite and sip supports the mission of equity.

Watch Parties & Events

Unlike traditional sports bars, 1972 Pub screens only women’s and gender-expansive sports. Fans can catch everything from:

  • WNBA and NWSL games
  • NCAA women’s tournaments
  • LPGA golf
  • Women’s tennis
  • UFC women’s matches
  • The Women’s World Cup
  • Olympic women’s competitions

Beyond daily programming, the pub hosts special watch parties, press events, athlete meetups, and themed sports weeks. Events like all-day softball marathons, volleyball finals, and women’s basketball championships regularly fill the space with cheering fans.

Inclusive & Accessible

Accessibility and inclusivity are built into 1972 Pub’s identity:

  • Family-friendly environment, with children welcome until 10 p.m.
  • Accessible facilities, including ramps, restrooms, and nearby parking.
  • A strong commitment to employing and partnering with women professionals across staffing, contractors, and vendors.

The result is a space where everyone—families, students, locals, and visitors—feels welcome.

Mission & Giving Back

1972 Pub was designed with a purpose beyond serving drinks. The owners dedicate 10% of profits to local nonprofits that support girls’ and gender-expansive youth sports in Austin.

The pub also partners with local women’s and community-based teams, including:

  • Austin Rise FC
  • UT Lady Longhorns
  • Austin Outlaws
  • Texas Roller Derby
  • LOVB Volleyball
  • Austin Valkyries
  • Round Rock Rage

These partnerships build stronger visibility for women’s sports at both grassroots and professional levels.

Founders’ Story & Community Impact

Creating Austin’s first women’s sports bar wasn’t easy. Founders Debra Hallum and Marlene du Plessis overcame challenges ranging from funding obstacles to skepticism from landlords. Without formal experience in the hospitality industry, they relied on crowdfunding, personal investment, and community backing to bring their vision to life.

Since opening, 1972 Pub has received an outpouring of support from fans, athletes, and local leaders. Guests often share how meaningful it is to finally have a space where women athletes are not an afterthought but the main attraction. For many, stepping inside feels like being part of a movement, not just a night out.

Why 1972 Pub is a Game-Changer for Austin

Austin is a city known for its energy, creativity, and love of sports. With the opening of 1972 Pub, the city now has a space that champions equity in athletics while offering a fun and engaging atmosphere.

By focusing exclusively on women’s sports, supporting women-owned businesses, and giving back to youth programs, 1972 Pub is much more than a bar—it’s a cultural statement. It’s a place where fans can gather for women’s basketball watch parties, celebrate wins over weekend brunch, or enjoy a night out before heading to a UT Austin women’s game.

For anyone looking for an inclusive sports bar in Austin, 1972 Pub delivers an experience that blends fandom, community, and purpose. Stop by with friends, support women athletes, and see why this Title IX–inspired pub is quickly becoming one of Austin’s most important new destinations.

Admin
Author: Admin

test

More Posts