MARIETTA, GA. — Atlanta United, a new Major League Soccer franchise, has opened its $60 million training facility on Franklin Gateway in Marietta, a northern suburb of Atlanta. Named the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground, the 33-acre project features a 30,000-square-foot headquarter building and six full-size soccer fields, including three natural grass and three FieldTurf surfaces. The architect, Atlanta-based tvsdesign, is applying the facility for LEED Silver certification. The headquarters building features a team locker room with 22-foot ceilings and 14 elevated windows, six additional locker rooms, full-service kitchen and dining room with balcony access, show pitch featuring a 2,500-seat stand and separate pavilion for viewing, gym, two hydrotherapy plunge pools and entrance artwork created by South African artist Marco Cianfanelli. The Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground will hold open training sessions and tournaments, as well as host visiting national and international clubs. The project will also be home to the club’s youth academy, first team players and club staff.
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