The Atlanta United Unified Team presented by Gallagher held their annual Signing Day to kick off a new season, a tradition that brought together Unified players, coaches, families, supporters, first team players, club executives and staff for a spirited and jubilant ceremony.
The event held at Park Tavern next to Piedmont Park gathered many different facets of the club together on Wednesday night. The ceremony took place in a large room adorned like a banquet hall. Long, white curtains hung from the ceiling and throughout the room were a dozen small round tables draped in black table clothes and decorated with a Unified-themed centerpiece.
Under different circumstances, the scene might look like the place of a fancy dinner party, but the night was about sending the Unified Team into their season with joy and excitement. Atlanta United supporters, clad in team gear, scarves and drums like they were at the supporters’ march before a game day, brought the noise. They marched, chanted, and led the Unified team through the room and down the red carpet.
It was the first Signing Day for several club executives, including club President and CEO Garth Lagerwey. He kicked off the event with a few words before passing it on to Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra.
“We couldn’t be happier to have hosted our Unified Signing Day to kick off the team’s seventh season,” Lagerwey said. “Although I’m new to the club, I’ve quickly learned how much this program means to us and our entire organization, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to participate in the event. It was such a pleasure to witness the genuine happiness of everyone involved, and the sincere connection between the athletes, partners and our players.”
Three Atlanta United first team members joined them up front stage. Goalkeeper Brad Guzan, midfielder Derrick Etienne, Jr. and fullback Andrew Gutman greeted each Unified Team player when they went up to the front…
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