Roger Hampel
The U.S. Soccer Federation, in partnership with the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, has officially broken ground on a new national training center, heralding a significant advancement for soccer in the United States. The Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center, set to open its doors in 2026, promises to be a cornerstone for the sport's development across the nation.
A New Home for American Soccer
Located in Trilith, Fayette County, Georgia, the new training facility spans an impressive 200 acres and is named after Arthur M. Blank, the co-founder of The Home Depot and owner of Atlanta United. This strategic location was chosen for its optimal climate for year-round training, accessibility, and the ability to drive local economic impact.
The center will feature over a dozen soccer fields, 100,000 square feet of indoor courts, and additional high-performance facilities totaling over 200,000 square feet. These facilities will accommodate all 27 U.S. Soccer National Teams, including Senior Women’s and Men’s teams, Youth, and Extended National Teams, focusing on creating a hub of soccer excellence and innovation.
Designed for Accessibility and High Performance
The training center will also include state-of-the-art locker rooms and meeting spaces, designed to be fully accessible and to serve U.S. Soccer’s Extended National Teams, such as those for athletes with Cerebral Palsy, Deaf athletes, and Power Soccer athletes. This thoughtful design ensures that the facility will be inclusive for all players and staff, promoting an environment of equality and high achievement.
Economic and Community Impact
Governor Brian Kemp of Georgia emphasized the center's significance during the groundbreaking ceremony, noting that the state is proud to support a project that enhances its status as a sports hub in America. The Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center is expected to create over 400 jobs and represents an investment of more than $200 million in the local economy.
Architectural and Environmental Excellence
The facility's design and construction are being led by Gensler, a global architecture, design, and planning firm known for its work on corporate offices and sports facilities. The project aims for LEED certification, incorporating energy-efficient systems and sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact.
Strengthening U.S. Soccer's Foundation
The training center is part of U.S. Soccer’s strategic plan to enhance the sport's growth and accessibility at all levels. This includes improving training environments, increasing participation, and ensuring the success of teams and individuals. Cindy Parlow Cone, President of U.S. Soccer, expressed confidence that this state-of-the-art facility would elevate the sport to unprecedented levels domestically and internationally.
A Lasting Legacy for Soccer
The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation's contribution to this project is part of a broader commitment to community development and philanthropy. With a long history of supporting educational and youth initiatives, this investment by Arthur M. Blank further solidifies his legacy in sports and community engagement.