An upbeat website for a downtown school

the Southerner Online

An upbeat website for a downtown school

the Southerner Online

An upbeat website for a downtown school

the Southerner Online

Atlanta Public Schools plans to focus on chronic absenteeism, missing any school, instead of truancy, unexcused absences. This takes the focus off of the legal process and onto the academic impact.
Georgia school districts deal with spiking chronic absenteeism
Brennan FrittsMay 16, 2024

Chronic absenteeism, a condition where a student misses 10% or more of a school year, has spiked in Georgia since COVID-19. Pre-COVID, Atlanta...

New US Soccer headquarters will elevate Atlanta

The+new+US+Soccer+headquarters+is+set+to+be+open+by+2026%2C+corresponding+with+Atlanta+hosting+the+2026+FIFA+Mens+World+Cup.+The+headquarters+will+house+all+27+US+national+teams%2C+including+mens%2C+womens%2C+youth+and+special+teams.+
Courtesy of US Soccer
The new US Soccer headquarters is set to be open by 2026, corresponding with Atlanta hosting the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup. The headquarters will house all 27 US national teams, including men’s, women’s, youth and special teams.

The decision by the United States Soccer Federation to relocate its headquarters from Chicago to Atlanta, in partnership with Georgia, marks a significant milestone for the city. The groundbreaking ceremony on April 8, attended by Gov. Brian Kemp, signifies the beginning of a promising venture for Fayette County and the wider Metro Atlanta area, both economically and socially.

With the creation of over 400 jobs, the headquarters promises to be a catalyst for substantial growth in Atlanta. Spanning 200 acres, the facility will serve as the home for all 27 U.S. national teams, including men’s, women’s and youth squads. Moreover, it will be a pivotal center for coaching and referee training, contributing to the development of soccer talent nationwide.

The relocation not only brings employment opportunities, but also shines a spotlight on Atlanta, attracting media attention, tourism, and revenue. Atlanta’s growing  soccer scene, propelled by the success of Major League Soccer team Atlanta United, coupled with the accessibility of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, positioned the city as an ideal host for the United States national teams’ new home. 

Arthur Blank’s generous donation of $50 million towards the $200 million construction project underscores the community’s commitment to the initiative. His contribution, earmarked for facilities catering to U.S. Soccer’s Extended National Teams, reflects a dedication to inclusivity and accessibility within the sport.

Named in honor of Arthur Blank and slated to coincide with Atlanta’s hosting of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, the headquarters symbolizes a convergence of sporting excellence and civic pride. Beyond its economic implications, the facility serves as a beacon for soccer enthusiasts locally and globally, offering unparalleled opportunities for athletes, coaches, and referees alike.

By leveraging its strategic location and global accessibility, the headquarters not only elevates Atlanta’s profile but also fosters a culture of excellence and innovation within the sport. As Atlanta prepares to embark on this exciting journey, the U.S. Soccer Federation headquarters stands poised to leave an indelible mark on the city’s landscape, shaping its future trajectory for years to come.

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About the Contributor
Ellie Palaian
Ellie Palaian, Sports Managing Editor
Ellie Palaian is a senior and this is her third year on staff for The Southerner. She plays varsity soccer for Midtown High and is excited to write for the paper this year.

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