If you’ve ever been driving an older vehicle to get an emissions test done, there’s a good chance you’ve heard the advice “drive it like you stole it.” Of course, this is because once your car is fully warmed up and the different engine parts are working at their peak performance, you’re much more likely to see good results.
Yes, this is an extended metaphor for youth development at a professional soccer club, and while it is admittedly a bit ridiculous, it does have some application to where Atlanta United currently stands. The Five Stripes’ academy officially began it’s third season last weekend, and when you stand back a bit and take stock of where the club’s development system is compared to this time 24 months ago, you see how much has already been accomplished.