The YMCA of Metro Atlanta announced on Feb. 25 that it has expanded its partnership with Atlanta United of Major League Soccer as a Soccer Development Partner.
Atlanta United’s Soccer Development Partner Program creates a collaborative relationship to foster the development of the elite level player in Georgia.
Partners are eligible to identify, develop and promote players to the Atlanta United Academy, host combines and talent ID sessions to showcase players for Atlanta United and receive support in growing the game across the State of Georgia. Partners also gain access to view First Team or academy training during the year for teams, coaches and players.
The YMCA of Metro Atlanta will have the opportunity to be recognized for player development and support by attending Atlanta United first team matches. The Y will also be on the pitch, interact with first team staff and players, and enjoy many more unique experiences.
The YMCA of Metro Atlanta’s logo will be represented on ATLUTD.com and the Y will receive special ticket promotions throughout the season along with customized matchday experiences for players and staff.
“ At the YMCA of Metro Atlanta we have offered youth soccer programs to the Atlanta community for over 50 years, and we are excited and proud to expand our partnership with Atlanta United,” said Ken O’Kelley, YMCA of Metro Atlanta Senior Vice President of Youth and Teen Development. “This will allow us the opportunity to continue to develop players in their local communities and help them reach their full potential.”
The YMCA of Metro Atlanta and Atlanta United first forged a partnership in 2017 when the club officially began to play as a Major League Soccer expansion team. Since then, the partnership has provided a myriad of opportunities, including, equipment donations, ticketing and fan experience opportunities for members, training for Y coaches, and the opportunity to serve as the community partner during the 2018 MLS All-Star Week hosted in Atlanta.
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ABOUT YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA
Since 1858, the YMCA of Metro Atlanta has been impacting lives and strengthening communities. As Atlanta has grown, the YMCA has also evolved to meet the changing needs of our community. Well-thought-out planning, while engaging stakeholders at various levels, provides the backdrop for sustainable change and positive impact at the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. By providing impactful services and support networks, and building bridges between people from all backgrounds, the Y has maintained its relevance, helping to create stronger, more cohesive communities for all.
ABOUT ATLANTA UNITED
Atlanta United joined Major League Soccer in 2017 and won the 2018 MLS Cup in just its second season, the earliest an expansion team has won the title since 1998. The club has set multiple league records including season tickets sales (36,000-plus), single-game attendance (72,548), single-season average (53,002) and total home attendance (901,033). Owned by Arthur M. Blank, and led by club President Darren Eales, Atlanta United plays its home matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. For more information about Atlanta United, including how to purchase season tickets, visit: www.atlutd.com and follow @ATLUTD.