This summer, the world’s biggest sporting event is coming to Atlanta. Between June 15 and July 15, Atlanta will host eight FIFA World Cup matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, including a semifinal match.
The expanded 104-game tournament will feature 48 national teams competing throughout North America. For soccer fans in Atlanta, the World Cup will bring an atmosphere unlike anything the city has seen in decades.
What does this mean for Marist and its students?
Soccer is already deeply rooted in Atlanta culture. As the home of Atlanta United FC, the city has become known for its passionate fanbase, and Marist students are no exception. Atlanta United stickers mark cars, and jerseys are common sights around campus on free dress days, especially during the MLS season.
Marist also has strong soccer programs of its own, with students and faculty regularly supporting the school’s teams. Last week, the girls varsity team dominated Westminster in a 3–0 victory, continuing an impressive season.
But the prestigious World Cup is unique. “International matches have an extra edge of passion and pride that I think people will really enjoy compared to MLS,” stated girls varsity soccer coach Curtis Engsberg.
The World Cup’s arrival has sparked excitement throughout the school community. Junior Kate Owens is planning to attend a match. “I am extremely excited to see Spain play Cabo Verde,” she exclaimed. Similarly, AP World History teacher David Negus also shared this enthusiasm: “I’m very excited for the city — it’s a bit like the excitement of the Olympics back in 1996.”
As fans from every corner of the globe flood Atlanta, the city will buzz with the electricity of soccer’s most intense event.
Mr. Engsberg shared additional coaching perspective on the event’s potential to inspire young players. “Having the best players in the world . . . right in our city is a great opportunity for inspiration and growth,” he explained.
For many students, this tournament represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The FIFA World Cup final is the most watched event on the planet, regularly attracting between 1.4 to 1.5 billion viewers. Atlantans will have the chance to witness history firsthand, rather than through a screen.
Whether students are lifelong soccer fans or simply excited about the energy the tournament will bring, the World Cup will make this summer unforgettable for Atlanta — and for Marist.
Maybe after this World Cup, you will agree with Negus, who declared that each of us can learn “how much passion people around the world have for this simple, little game.”
