#United States #Georgia Power #U.S. Soccer #National Training Center #Trilith

Georgia Power Joins Forces with U.S. Soccer for Accessibility

In an exciting development for the sports community, Georgia Power has teamed up with the U.S. Soccer Federation to enhance accessibility and opportunity through the newly established Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center. This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant step towards inclusivity within sports, reinforcing the commitment of both organizations to serve all athletes, particularly those with disabilities.

The National Training Center, located in Trilith, Georgia, is a sprawling 200-acre facility designed to foster innovation in soccer while improving performance and expanding access for players at all levels. Georgia Power has been named a Supporting Partner, providing essential resources to ensure that the center meets the needs of a diverse range of athletes.

A key feature of this partnership is the Georgia Power Court, an indoor playing surface tailored for Futsal and Power Soccer, two sports that require specialized conditions for optimal play. The Futsal court is roughly the same size as a standard basketball court and is integrated within the National Training Center to serve various competitive formats. The design includes hardwood floors and accommodates power wheelchairs equipped with unique footguards, allowing athletes to engage in the sport fully.

Trey Kilpatrick, Senior Vice President of External Affairs for Georgia Power, commented on the initiative, stating, "Just as we invest in our state's electric system, we take pride in investing in the communities we serve to help power the economic future of Georgia. Being a Supporting Partner of the National Training Center reflects our commitment to strengthening communities and expanding opportunities for athletes across Georgia." Kilpatrick emphasized that soccer unites people and that this partnership is a vital part of broadening access to the sport.

The National Training Center is crafted to be one of the most accessible sports facilities in the country. Inclusivity is embedded in every design aspect, catering to all nine Extended National Teams and ensuring that athletes from various backgrounds can experience soccer in a supportive setting. This effort is especially important as the facility prepares for its first adaptive soccer event, ADAPTandTHRIVE, scheduled for May 20–24, spotlighting inclusive programming and the capabilities of athletes with disabilities.

Dan Gaiman, Senior Vice President of Partnership Development and Strategy at U.S. Soccer, said, "Soccer belongs to everyone, and the National Training Center is built with accessibility at its core, ensuring that more people than ever can participate in the game." He noted that the collaboration with Georgia Power not only aims to expand opportunities for athletes but also strives to enrich communities through the sport.

Georgia Power is the largest electric utility in Georgia, serving over 2.8 million customers across the state. Their commitment goes beyond delivering energy; it focuses on ensuring that communities thrive economically and socially. For more information on Georgia Power and their commitment to community service, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com.

U.S. Soccer, established in 1913, serves as the official governing body for soccer in the U.S. With a vision that transcends mere competition, it aims to ignite a national passion for soccer and act as a force for good within communities. Further details about U.S. Soccer and their mission can be found at ussoccer.com.

The Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center is poised to offer a transformative platform for athletes, encouraging participation in soccer that champions inclusivity and accessibility. As preparations continue for upcoming events, this partnership sets an inspiring precedent for similar initiatives across the sports world.