A Night Under the Lights at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Atlanta United’s next generation of soccer stars took center stage Wednesday night as the club hosted its 2025 Academy Dinner presented by Truist. Held on the pitch at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the event was more than just a dinner — it was a celebration of dreams, family, and the journey from youth soccer to professional careers.
For Atlanta United’s Academy players, this wasn’t just any gathering. It was a chance to walk the same turf they hope to one day defend as First Team players, surrounded by their families, teammates, coaches, and heroes.
Celebrating Success and Setting New Goals
The 2024–25 season was one for the history books. Four of the five Academy teams won their regular-season titles, and several players debuted with Atlanta United 2 in MLS NEXT Pro. Wednesday’s event was equal parts recognition and motivation.
Players from the U-13 through U-18 squads were honored, each called on stage and presented with a commemorative gift bag that included a mini Golden Spike — a reminder of Atlanta United’s traditions and the path they’re building.
Guest speakers included Chief Soccer Officer Chris Henderson, Director of Methodology Javier Pérez, and club legend Brad Guzan, all of whom shared wisdom and encouragement for the Academy’s rising stars.
Messages That Stuck
Chris Henderson: Talent opens the door — work keeps you in
Henderson drew on his own playing career, urging players to take responsibility for their growth:
“Talent will open the door, but hard work, humility, and discipline will keep you in the room. Don’t fear mistakes — embrace them.”
Javier Pérez: Parents matter as much as players
The Director of Methodology highlighted the support system behind every young player. He also announced that Academy standout Gabriel Wesseh was named MLS NEXT Pro Rising Star of the Month for August.
“We look for support. It’s probably the most important factor,” Pérez said. “We thank the parents, the tutors, everyone who makes sacrifices for these players.”
Brad Guzan: Why not you?
The most capped player in club history addressed the Academy players with a powerful reminder:
“Somebody in this stadium tonight is going to represent Atlanta United. Ask yourself: why can’t that be me?”
A Night of Fun and Family
It wasn’t all speeches and spotlights. Atlanta United made sure the Academy Dinner was packed with activities:
- Soccer tennis nets in the corners of the field.
- A full-size goal in front of The Gulch (yes, even in suits and dresses).
- The 2018 MLS Cup trophy on display for photos.
- EA Sports FC matches inside the Delta Sky360 Club.
- A phone booth where players recorded messages to their future selves — a time capsule of sorts.
Parents were also invited to leave messages for their kids, reminders of their support and pride that will be shared later this season.
Honoring the Past: The Christian Carrillo Award
A particularly emotional moment came when Pérez presented the Christian Carrillo Award, named after the Academy goalkeeper who tragically passed away in 2022.
This year’s award was given to Jonathan Ransom, with his parents accepting on his behalf as he trains with Canada’s U-20 National Team. It was a poignant reminder of the Academy’s bond as a family — one that extends far beyond the pitch.
Academy Players, Families, and First Team Together
The event also brought Academy hopefuls face-to-face with their role models. First Team players including Will Reilly, Jay Fortune, Matt Edwards, Dominik Chong Qui, and Brad Guzan attended, while Homegrown stars like Luke Brennan and Adyn Torres sent video messages of encouragement.
As broadcaster Mike Conti reminded everyone, he first met Chong Qui at a past Academy Dinner — and now the young midfielder is a professional with Atlanta United.
That journey is the blueprint for the kids who dressed sharp, posed for pictures, and soaked in the atmosphere Wednesday night.
What This Means for Atlanta Soccer
The Academy Dinner wasn’t just about recognizing talent; it was about showing the pathway from Georgia’s soccer fields to Mercedes-Benz Stadium. For youth soccer parents in Atlanta, the message was clear:
- The development system is thriving.
- Families are just as crucial as players.
- The next generation of 5-Stripes is already taking shape.
With MLS NEXT seasons about to kick off, and Atlanta United’s First Team still pushing in MLS, the Academy Dinner was the perfect reminder that the future of Atlanta soccer is bright.
Final Word
From speeches that inspired to trophies that dazzled, the 2025 Academy Dinner was everything Atlanta United stands for: ambition, family, and community.
As Guzan summed it up perfectly:
“The journey is just starting … enjoy the journey.”
What did you think of the Academy Dinner? Which Atlanta United Academy player do you think will be the next Homegrown to break into the First Team? Drop your thoughts in the comments or join the conversation on Twitter/X with #ATLUTDAcademy.
