The Birmingham Hammers announced last Friday that they were adding two friendlies to the 2017 home schedule.
The Boys in Red will renew the I-20 Cup with the Georgia Revolution on June 13th.
But perhaps overshadowing that match is the May 27th matchup against the Atlanta United U18 squad.
The ATLUTD U18 match is savvy addition to the schedule for many reasons:
1. MLS is more popular than it has ever been and now that there is a team in the Deep South, there are a lot of fans here in Birmingham of the new franchise in Atlanta. ATLUTD is bringing that name recognition to town, and you better believe there will be plenty of people that’ll want to watch them play, even if it’s the U18 team.
2. Speaking of the ATLUTD U18 Team – did I mention it is one of the best academy teams in all of the MLS. There is boatloads of talent on the roster.
For starters, how about ATLUTD Homegrown signee Andrew Cartlon? Remember this name Backliners. He is a stud on the wing and he is currently on the U18 roster. It won’t be long until he is scoring for the senior team in MLS, and perhaps suiting up for our US Men’s National Team.
There is a possibility that he may be loaned out this summer to a USL club (probably the Charleston Battery) or maybe even called up to the ATLUTD Senior team… but if he’s still on the roster when they come to the SHAC, buy your tickets. It will be a show.
3. By bringing ATLUTD U18 to town, the Hammers players will have the opportunity to play in front of MLS Academy coaches. What better way to be seen than to actually play in front of the people that can connect you to a top level MLS side.
Expect the Boys in Red to put their best feet forward for this match. Maybe just maybe a few of our guys will get noticed.
Guys – if you don’t believe that the Hammers are putting something together special for 2017, after this announcement, you better get on board. We have a ton of quality soccer coming to the Magic City this summer and we are only about 43 days out.
Get your tickets over at the Birmingham Hammers website and start planning your tailgate NOW!
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