Officially launched in 2016 ahead of its first MLS season, the academy serves as Atlanta United's youth development program. Squads train and compete at the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground in Marietta. The club also operates a pre-academy pipeline through its tryout-based Regional Development School for players ages seven to fourteen.
WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE US
Why families choose this club
Pathway to the pros
The club states its academy provides a clear pathway to the first team as a Homegrown Player while assisting student-athletes in competing at top colleges and universities.
Top state ranking
Competing as an MLS academy, the club fielded the #1 U14 boys team in GA on PitchRank.
Tournament success
Academy squads have secured national silverware, including an MLS NEXT Cup title for the U-13 team and a Generation adidas Cup title for the U-16 squad.
PROGRAMS
Programs
The club fields teams across the U-13, U-14, U-15, U-17 and U-19 age brackets and enters teams into MLS NEXT Cup postseason play. A separate Futures program, launched in 2023, provides players ages 11-14 weekly training sessions in an authentic academy environment. Selected participants in the Futures program maintain roster registration with their home youth clubs while attending weekly academy sessions.
Primary training locations: Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground
TUITION
Cost to play
The club states that participation in the academy is free for all selected players. Selected athletes also receive an equipment package with full uniform and adidas footwear.
The technical operations report to Sporting Director Chris Henderson and feature specialized sports science and medical personnel.
Performance and medical
Departmental directors include Javier Perez as Director of Methodology, Tomaz Marinelli as Head of Performance, and Dr. Cliff Willimon as Academy Doctor.
Age group coaches
Age-group squads are guided by U18 Head Coach Steven Turek, U16 Head Coach Colby Childress, U15 Head Coach Steve Covino, and U14 Head Coach Bruno Ramos.
Scouting staff
Talent identification and support are managed by Head Academy Development Scout Michael Lynch.
Javier Perez
Director of Methodology
Steven Turek
U18 Head Coach
Colby Childress
U16 Head Coach
Steve Covino
U15 Head Coach
Bruno Ramos
U14 Head Coach
Tomaz Marinelli
Head of Performance
Dr. Cliff Willimon
Academy Doctor
Michael Lynch
U16 Assistant Coach & Head Academy Development Scout
PATHWAY TO THE PROS
Pathway to the Pros
The club states the Academy system provides a clear pathway for players who show the required potential, ability and desire to reach the first team as a Homegrown Player, while also assisting athletes in pursuing opportunities to play soccer at top colleges and universities.
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