Celebrating Accessibility: Atlanta Amputee Soccer Wins 2025 ADAPTandTHRIVE Disability Award
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On February 12, 2026, U.S. Soccer officially announced that Atlanta Amputee Soccer has won the 2025 ADAPTandTHRIVE Disability Award. This honor recognizes an organization or individual making a significant impact on disability soccer in the United States while celebrating accessibility and inclusion in the sport.
From Leadership Course to Regional Success
The program's roots can be traced back to the first ADAPTandTHRIVE Leadership Course hosted by U.S. Soccer in December 2023. During those sessions, Co-Founder Katie George met with several attendees, including U.S. Men’s Amputee Soccer National Team player Jovan Booker, and was inspired to help launch the Atlanta initiative.
Following George's meeting with physical therapist Daniel Copeland in February 2024, the program began to take shape, eventually hosting its first clinic in Atlanta in June 2024.
Growth and Competitive Pathways
Since its official launch, Atlanta Amputee Soccer has seen rapid growth:
Increased Participation: Participation in clinics grew into double-digit figures in 2025.
National Recognition: The program has already sent one player to a National Team camp.
Developed Pathways: It now offers both recreational and competitive pathways for athletes living with limb loss or limb difference
A Community Milestone
Co-Founder and Regional Director Daniel Copeland expressed that this recognition belongs to the entire Atlanta Amputee Soccer community—including the dedicated athletes, passionate volunteers, community allies, and the American Amputee Soccer Association (AASA). The program has provided individuals with meaningful access to the sport, allowing them to engage and build community while striving for excellence in their daily lives.
Get Involved
As regional programs like Atlanta continue to grow, the American Amputee Soccer Association (AASA) remains committed to documenting these stories of triumph and empowerment. From covering the Men's National Team’s journey to the 2026 World Cup to highlighting local youth clinics, our mission is to ensure every athlete with a limb difference has a place to play.