On December 8, 2017, Atlanta United announced the launch of their new program — The United Juniors Development Training Program that will commence by February 2018.
The United Juniors program will provide an incredible opportunity to players born between 2007 – 2009. They will be trained under the Atlanta United Academy staff at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground.
The United Juniors program aims to identify youth players and enhance their development before reaching the U-12 level. The training program will be from February until May 2018.
Club directors and coaches from youth teams around Georgia will also take part in selecting players that will be joining the United Juniors program. Selected players will still remain an active player in their own club while undergoing the training.
Atlanta United Academy Director Tony Annan expresses his excitement with the United Juniors Program. “This is a great way to help develop young players without taking them away from the clubs and their teams at such a young age. We look forward to working with coaches from Georgia youth soccer clubs to help enhance player development and assist with coaching education. Directors and coaches of clubs choosing to participate in the United Juniors Program will be eligible for workshops and coaching education programs.”
Since the Atlanta United Academy was launched in 2016, it has reached many levels of success. Their success doesn’t stop there. The Junior Program is another milestone for the Academy.
Last season, the U-16 team won the National Championship and the U-18s finished with the No. 1 overall record in the entire country. They only had two losses out of 30 regular season matches on their journey to winning the Southeast Division.
But, their achievements don’t end there. The Academy produced six players who signed professional contracts. One of those players is 17-year-old Andrew Carleton who already made his MLS debut.
More information about the United Juniors Training Development Program can be found at ATLUTD.
Written by Purple Jane Collins
