Atlanta United hosted its 2025 Academy Dinner at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, marking the start of a new season for its youth development program. The event, presented by Truist, brought together players from the U13 to U18 teams, their families, and club staff for an evening that included speeches, activities, and recognition of achievements.
The dinner took place on the stadium pitch where many Academy players aspire to play as members of the First Team. Since its founding, the Atlanta United Academy has offered young athletes opportunities to develop their soccer skills and pursue professional careers. The upcoming season for all age groups will begin in the fall.
Last year saw significant accomplishments for the Academy: several players debuted with Atlanta United 2, and four out of five teams secured league regular season titles. The dinner served both as a celebration of these successes and as motivation for future goals.
Family involvement was recognized throughout the night. Attendees could record messages to their future selves or loved ones using a phone booth set up on the field. Other activities included soccer tennis, photo opportunities with Atlanta United’s 2018 MLS Cup trophy, EAFC gaming sessions inside the Delta Sky360 Club, and tours of the First Team locker room.
Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Chris Henderson addressed attendees about his own career path and encouraged hard work and perseverance: “Talent will open the door, but hard work, humility, discipline, that will keep you in the room.” Henderson said. “Every training session, every match, every moment is a chance to grow. Don’t fear mistakes, embrace them.”
Director of Methodology Javier Perez spoke about evaluating players beyond skill and character: “We look for support, it’s probably the most important factor,” Perez said. ” … I want to thank the parents, the tutors. We thank you for all the effort that you make.” He also announced that Gabriel Wesseh had been named MLS NEXT Pro’s Rising Star of the Month for August.
First Team Homegrown player Dominik Chong Qui was highlighted as an example of progress through the Academy system. Radio host Mike Conti reminded players: “Savor your accomplishments,” Conti said. “Savor the moment. Savor the hard work that got you here.”
Veteran goalkeeper Brad Guzan addressed those in attendance: “Somebody in this stadium tonight is going to represent Atlanta United,” Guzan said. “What you guys need to do is ask yourselves, ‘why can’t that be me?’ This room is full of potential, progress, and passion for the game.” Guzan concluded his remarks by telling players: “The journey is just starting … Enjoy the journey.”
Will Bates (U16 head coach) and Matthew Freimuth (Truist Market President) also spoke during the event. A video message from several First Team Homegrown players offered encouragement to current Academy members.
Javier Perez announced Jonathan Ransom as recipient of this year’s Christian Carrillo Award—named after a former academy goalkeeper who died in 2022—with Ransom’s parents accepting on his behalf while he represents Canada’s U-20 team abroad.
Each player present walked across stage as part of their team roster announcement and received a commemorative mini Golden Spike signed as a keepsake for 2025.
