The City of Garland is about to see its soccer scene get a major upgrade. As reported by the city's official website, the Garland Foundation for Development, Inc. has greenlit a state-of-the-art training facility for Atlético Dallas, the region's first United Soccer League (USL) Championship club. The board of directors approved the lease agreement for a site that will feature a 22,000 square-foot building at the intersection of Holford Road and the President George Bush Turnpike.
The complex, a part of a larger $70.87 million soccer complex project, promises to be a hive of activity with a "Show Pitch," complete with natural turf and seating for 2,000, in addition to hybrid and natural turf fields for various levels of play. But these details form just a piece of the broader narrative. The plan also envisions 14 acres of commercially zoned land for potential hotel, multifamily, and retail developments, an indication of the expected economic ripple effects.
According to Mayor Dylan Hedrick, the initiative aims to transcend sport. "This project is about more than soccer—it’s about building something enduring for the people of Garland," he said, per the City of Garland. Echoing this sentiment, Matt Valentine, Co-Founder and Chairman of Atlético Dallas, said, "We’re excited to partner with the City of Garland to build a place where dreams are born, talent is nurtured, and the Garland community thrives." These facilities aren't just pitches for play, but the groundwork for driving regional tourism and supporting community flourishing.
Under a public-private lease agreement, Atlético Dallas and its affiliated youth academy will manage the soccer fields and training facilities. The complex is set to host leagues and training sessions year-round, aiming to forge a path for local youth with professional aspirations. And with construction slated to begin in 2026 and wrap up by the time the balls are rolling in the inaugural 2027 season, the anticipation is certainly kicking in.
