Soccer in Atlanta has a [...]]]> In Greek mythology after a long life the phoenix would erupt into flames and out of the ashes a young phoenix would arise.  It’s easy to see why after General Sherman burnt Atlanta to the ground the city would adopt that symbol and the motto “Resurgens” meaning Rising Again.

Soccer in Atlanta has a long history as well.  Unlike the phoenix there has never been a long life to any of the teams or leagues.  From the inception of the original NASL back in 1968, when the Atlanta Chiefs won the first championship, to the new proposed NASL.   From the coming and going of the Beat to their rebirth that is still in process. Yet here we are once again in the midst of a resurgence.

This time last year we were reeling from word by the Silverbacks organization that the men’s team would sit out the 2009 season.   In December of 2008 came the crushing blow that Arthur Blank’s AMB Group had withdrawn their bid for a MLS franchise due to the economic conditions and lack of progress on the stadium front.  The only glimmer of hope for professional soccer was the letter of intent that Fitz Johnson had submitted to WPS.  Yet even that was under a cloud as the economy feel to a dept that not many expected and people wondered if the new women’s league would meet the same fate as the previous one.

Step forward a year and we still don’t have MLS and have started to accept the fact that we won’t for the next several years, if ever.  There are 2 potential teams that could play in the Men’s 2^nd Division league.  However, at this point in the year it would be nearly impossible to put together a team that could play, much less compete, in 2010.  Unless it’s a necessity to meet USSF regulations I seriously doubt a team will be fielded.

But 2009 did have some highlights that can’t go unmentioned.   We had an outstanding summer of soccer with the likes of AC Milan, Club America, Mexico, and the Venezuelan National Team playing at the Georgia Dome.  We had the Beat begin to put together a young, talented team.  The Beat also announced a partnership with Kennesaw State University who is building a women’s soccer specific stadium.   

So, the Beat’s back. The Silverbacks are kinda back. The Blackhawks should be back.  The new USL team may arrive if the USL can make a comeback.  Who will stay?  Who will go? Only time will tell.  Let’s hope that as the rebirth of these teams takes place that they’ll be stronger and live longer than before.