As the world prepares for the arrival of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the impact of the tournament is already being felt in classrooms across metro Atlanta. A new initiative led by FIFA and U.S. Soccer is bringing professional training and curriculum directly to local educators to ensure the sport’s legacy extends far beyond the stadium walls.
This week, Mercedes-Benz Stadium played host to a specialized workshop for physical education teachers and community coaches from across the Atlanta Public Schools (APS) district. The goal of the program is to equip these educators with the tools and certification necessary to teach soccer to thousands of students, many of whom may be inspired to pick up a ball for the first time as the World Cup approaches.
Training the Trainers: A “Soccer Forward” Initiative
The training, led by professionals from FIFA and U.S. Soccer, focuses on more than just the technical aspects of the game. Educators are learning a curriculum designed to use soccer as a vehicle for developing essential life and social skills in young students. This effort is part of the Soccer Forward Foundation, U.S. Soccer’s landmark legacy initiative aimed at making the game the most accessible sport in America by 2026.
Core Educational Focus Areas:
- Confidence Building: Helping students find their voice and physical presence through sport.
- Teamwork: Emphasizing collaboration, communication, and collective effort on and off the field.
- Student Wellness: Promoting physical health and active lifestyles through consistent movement.
The initiative is proactive, anticipating a massive “soccer uptake” as Atlanta prepares to host eight matches, including a high-profile semi-final. Organizers noted during the event that they want local schools to be the primary resource when families inevitably look for ways to engage with the sport this summer.
From the Stadium to the Streets
The program isn’t limited to classroom theory. Following the morning workshops at the stadium, the group of teachers and coaches moved to the “Soccer in the Streets” fields for hands-on experience. This practical training allows educators to test the new curriculum in real-time, ensuring they can effectively bring these lessons back to their respective schools.
“Soccer in the Streets” has long been a pioneer in the city’s soccer culture, particularly through their StationSoccer initiative, which builds pitches at MARTA stations to remove transportation barriers. By partnering with these grassroots leaders, FIFA and U.S. Soccer are aiming to create a sustainable soccer culture in Georgia that continues to thrive long after the World Cup trophy is raised.
What This Means: A Lasting Legacy for Georgia
This training is a cornerstone of the broader 2026 FIFA World Cup Legacy Project. With the Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center set to open in the metro area later this year, Atlanta is positioning itself as the permanent home for American soccer development.
Next Steps for Parents and Students:
- Check with Your School: Ask your local APS physical education teacher about when the new soccer curriculum will be integrated into your child’s PE classes.
- Explore StationSoccer: Visit a Soccer in the Streets location near you to see how grassroots play is expanding across the MARTA network.
- Volunteer: As Decatur WatchFest ’26 and other local fan zones begin their recruitment, there are dozens of ways to help welcome the world this June.
Do you think soccer should be a mandatory part of the PE curriculum in Georgia schools? Share your thoughts in the comments below or join the conversation on social media with #WorldCup2026 and #AtlantaSoccer!
Author: Quique Lopez
Quique Lopez doesn’t just cover soccer—he deconstructs it with the precision of a veteran and the wit of a storyteller. A former player who sees the pitch as both a tactical chessboard and a cultural stage, Quique balances sharp critiques with a genuine love for the game’s soul. He’s as quick to call out the ego of a superstar as he is to find the hidden beauty in a local derby.