More Than a Game: Atlanta Unified Enters New Season
- Kate Wilson '27
- 5 hours ago
- 3 min read
After finishing back-to-back undefeated seasons, the Atlanta United Unified team kicks off its ninth season on May 3 against Nashville. Player Luke Edwards said, “I am going to bring some energy.” Atlanta United Unified continues its mission of inclusion by creating opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities through soccer.
Established in 1988, the Special Olympics Unified Sports program brings together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities to play on the same team, fostering an adaptive and inspiring environment. In 2013, a collaboration between MLS Works, ESPN, and Special Olympics North America expanded this initiative, integrating Unified Sports into Major League Soccer. This partnership redefined inclusivity in professional soccer, giving athletes with intellectual disabilities the chance to experience the game at its highest level.
Atlanta United launched its Unified program during its inaugural season in 2017, making it a core part of the team’s identity. The push to incorporate a Unified program resulted from Atlanta United’s focus on community engagement and the goal of expanding adaptive sports. Community Engagement Manager Alec Queisser said, “It is important for us to be on the forefront with community giveback and see these kids thrive.”
Atlanta United players stay connected with the Unified team as ambassadors, cheering on the team at matches, participating in signing day, and making practice appearances. This year, the Unified ambassadors are Brad Guzan and Jay Fortune. Guzan takes on his ninth year as a team ambassador, while Fortune begins his first. Fortune said, “I am just trying to help in any way I can, and seeing the smiles on the players' faces brings a smile to my face.”
The 2025 Atlanta United Unified team consists of 20 players: 10 players with intellectual disabilities and 10 partner players without intellectual disabilities. Partner player Alexander Bartlett said, “The Unified team promotes inclusivity with all players and allows all people to have the opportunity to play at the highest level while having fun.”
Head coach Marty Jelleme enters his seventh year of coaching the Unified team. According to Jelleme, the true importance of Unified lies in how much the players learn from the experience, whether public speaking, traveling, or time management. “It is so wonderful to see the growth of each player,” said Jelleme. Looking to the future, Jelleme is most excited about the Genuine World Cup this summer, where he will take a handful of players to compete in Houston, Texas.
The Unified teams' season began with team tryouts in November 2024, followed by signing day this past March. Since then, the team has been training weekly for the season ahead.
Atlanta United Unified is getting ready for a busy season, with four matches scheduled:
HOME — May 3 vs Nashville SC
AWAY — May 14 vs Austin FC
AWAY — July 12 vs Toronto FC
HOME — August 24 vs Toronto FC
This season, they will make history as the first Unified team to travel internationally for a match. The Unified program continues to grow, and there are hopes that it will evolve into something more significant than ever. Partner player Daniel Urshansky said, “At one of my first games, we only had about 100 people in the stands, and at our last game last year, we had around 1000.”
Reflecting on the team's spirit, player Alex Evans said, “The teamwork that we show and the dedication we show as a team” sets Unified apart. Participating in sports creates an environment for young adults to build connections while actively engaging in their community. The power of inclusivity in sports is no secret, and as the Unified sports program continues to grow, so does a more adaptive society for all. Queisser said, “We are trying to show that the game of soccer is accessible, and all you need is a field and a ball.” Special Olympics Unified aims to create change by showcasing what’s possible when all athletes receive the same chance.
Fans attending the Atlanta United game on May 3 can stick around after the match to see Unified play their first game of the season and experience what inclusivity in sports truly looks like.