The Golden Spike Tradition - Arthur Blank

On Matchday, an Atlanta tradition is born.

90 minutes before Atlanta United take the field, the players arrive at Mercedes-Benz Stadium to sign the Golden Spike, followed by the club's faithful supporters (everyone is invited to sign it). Then, just minutes before the players walk out for kickoff, a select number of Atlanta United supporters march and carry the Golden Spike through the supporters section and to the platform fronting it. Join the supporters, join the movement, this is a relic signed by all, as a symbol of unity and strength.

The Golden Spike is then hammered into the railroad platform by a chosen ATLien with the stadium chanting…. A-T-L with every strike, a sound ringing true to our hearts.

After the final whistle, a smaller Golden Spike is awarded to a player, an honor voted on by the fans (via our app). In addition, he is also given one to keep as reminder of his performance, and the experience with the fans that he can cherish forever.

Be early, stay late, and be part of a culture driven by tradition and rooted in the ATL. Find out who's had the honor of hitting the Spike in each of our home matches below!

Spike Hitter: Te-Hina Paopao

March 14, 2026 vs Philadelphia Union

ATLUTD_20260314_ATLvsPHI_KS1_5844 (1)

Atlanta Dream basketball player Te-Hina Paopao hit the Golden Spike for our match against Philadelphia Union.

Spike Hitter: Dominique Dawes

March 7, 2026 vs Real Salt Lake

ATLUTD_20260307_ATLvsRSL_SB10446

Dominique Dawes, former Olympic gymnast, hit the Golden Spike for our Home Opener match vs Real Salt Lake.