Atlanta United Unified has their eyes on another success year in 2026: another undefeated season in a row and plenty of memories made. Unified kick their season off with a home match against LA Galaxy Unified Saturday, May 9.
Tuesday afternoon, the squad followed the First Team training with training of their own. On Supporters Day at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground, 17s stayed around to support Unified's session as well.
After Signing Day in March, players got right to work, emphasizing the importance of teamwork.
“It’s taught me a lot for sure," partner Ike Eiswirth, in his fifth season with the team, said. "It’s important we have good communication every practice and game."
Results are key, but development as players and people is the real prize that Unified is looking for this season.
“I would say I’ve grown a lot better than my very first time," athlete Steven Russell said. "I feel like my teammates have helped with that, especially with the help of our coaches."
Every new season brings exciting challenges and new road trips. Several players are excited to head to Miami, with high hopes of meeting new partners and athletes and enjoying new experiences. For now, though, sights are set on Saturday's match against Galaxy.
There’s one question on everyone’s mind heading into Saturday: Who will score the first goal? Xavier “X-Man” Hairston may be the favorite as the all-time leading goalscorer for Atlanta United Unified. Hairston has earned the trust of his teammates, with many mentioning how his speed will help the team accomplish great things.
“He’s always killing it out on the field,” partner Camila Gomez said.
Hairston, entering his fifth season, took in the compliments but also made sure to give credit to his other teammates.
“Me or Liam or Daniel or Steven, or maybe anybody,” he said, emphasizing that anyone can score the first goal.
Along with supporters, Tuesday’s scrimmage also brought out First Team players Will Reilly and Tristan Muyumba. Reilly immediately noticed that the team’s biggest strength was their spirit.
“No one’s really thinking too much, they’re just playing,” he said, adding that he hopes to bring that same joy into his own game. Heading into the home opener, his message was simple: “Have fun and work hard.”
17s can catch the action Saturday, May 9 at 9:30 p.m. ET, immediately following the First Team match. Supporters in attendance at Mercedes-Benz Stadium can join in sections 126C–130C, and those at home can stream the match live on atlutd.com/live.
About Unified:
Each Unified team is made up of a diverse group of both Special Olympics athletes, individuals with developmental disabilities, and partners, individuals without developmental disabilities. The squads are allowed to freely substitute, giving both rosters a chance to showcase their talent.
The Unified sides train, travel and compete in matches just as the first teams do. It's a truly inclusive space that brings together athletes from all over the Americas.
