On any evening, the Harmon Park mini-pitch echoes with young athletes chasing their dreams—cleats scuffing the turf, the rhythmic thump of a soccer ball, and the cheers of coaches who believe in more than just the game. For Georgia Impact, soccer isn’t just a sport; it’s a catalyst for change, a force that shapes young leaders and strengthens the entire Canton & Cherokee County community.
With a history spanning over 50 years, Georgia Impact—formerly known as the Cherokee Soccer Association—has grown into more than a competitive club. Today, the organization serves over 4,200 players and is supported by 147 dedicated staff members, including referees and coaches, all focused on shaping young lives on and off the field.
However, Georgia Impact and its nonprofit arm, Cherokee Youth Foundation, recognize that investing in youth is much more than teaching soccer skills. Partnering in programs like Strive for 23 ensures that high school students stay on track to graduate, integrating soccer into their academic success. Scholarships ensure no child is left behind due to financial constraints, while mentorship initiatives cultivate responsibility, teamwork, and leadership skills that last a lifetime.
Beyond the Game: Building a Stronger Cherokee County
For Georgia Impact, legacy isn’t just measured in wins—it’s measured in lives changed. As facilitators of the Cherokee Collective Gathering, held every third Thursday in Canton, local nonprofits unite to mobilize support for families in need quickly. Whether it’s educational resources, mentorship programs, or emergency financial aid, the goal is simple: ensure that the community and its young athletes thrive together.
The club’s commitment to community partnerships extends beyond soccer. One of its most significant collaborations has been with Atlanta United and the Arthur Blank Foundation, leading to the development of a $4.3 million revitalization project at Harmon Park. Originally planned as a small mini-pitch, this project transformed into a state-of-the-art facility where hundreds of kids gather weekly to learn, grow, and develop their love for the game.
"We’ve always believed that our mission extends beyond soccer," says Executive Director of Georgia Impact, Shane Moore. “We invest in young people, families, and a stronger, more connected community.”
Investing in the Future Through Soccer
Georgia Impact is committed to creating pathways for young athletes, ensuring that their journey in soccer translates into opportunities beyond the field. The club's investment in development programs and college networking has led to players receiving full-ride scholarships, with many moving on to Division I and Division II programs.
“Our job is to provide as many opportunities as possible,” says Robert Roddie, Director of Operations. “If we can help a kid graduate, get into college, or even play professionally, then we’ve done our job. But it’s not just about soccer—it’s about creating good people prepared for life beyond the sport.”
One example is Gabriella Etienne, a former Impact player who transitioned into coaching, refereeing, and mentoring. “Since joining the club, I have encountered so many people who continue to support and invest in my journey, whether as a player, referee, coach, or intern,” she shares.
The character-building element of Georgia Impact's coaching philosophy is crucial. Coaches undergo pre-season and post-season evaluations, not just on soccer techniques but also on their ability to mentor and develop life skills in their players. This approach ensures that Georgia Impact players grow into well-rounded individuals equipped for success.
A New Era: Bringing Professional Women’s Soccer to Georgia
Georgia Impact’s next bold move is launching a professional women’s soccer team, which will provide a critical pathway for female athletes beyond college. Competing in a Tier 3 national league, the team will travel nationwide, bringing elite-level competition to Georgia and offering new opportunities for young women to pursue professional careers in soccer.
This expansion is a dream realized for players who have grown up in Georgia Impact’s system, whether UPSL, WPSL, or college placement. “The fact that we can bring professional women’s soccer to Georgia is huge,” says Moore. “It’s about showing young athletes that they have a future in this sport and giving them the platform to pursue their dreams.”
The league, with 15 teams spanning the country, is set to bring higher competition to Georgia’s soccer scene. With plans to expand to 16 teams soon, Georgia Impact plays a key role in growing opportunities for female athletes.
“This investment ensures that players who start in recreational leagues can progress through the ranks—from elite club teams to college scholarships, and now, to professional soccer,” says Roddie. “The larger we grow, the more opportunities we can provide for the community.”
The women’s professional team will play nationally, competing against teams from Texas to California, bringing high-caliber soccer closer to home. While the club is still finalizing a permanent home field, the goal remains: to create a professional environment that nurtures talent and provides a stepping stone for future generations.
Expanding Impact: More Than Just Soccer
Beyond soccer, Georgia Impact and Cherokee Youth Foundation are dedicated to supporting the broader Cherokee County community. Through initiatives like the Cherokee Collective Gathering, the club has provided critical aid to families, addressing educational gaps, emergency financial needs, and community mentorship.
“We started the Cherokee Youth Foundation because we saw needs that extended far beyond soccer,” explains Kim Bishop, Director of Community Outreach. “We were already involved in helping families, supporting schools, and building character. The Foundation allowed us to expand that reach.”
Through partnerships with local schools, Strive for 23, and after-school programs, Georgia Impact provides a structured, supportive environment for young people who need it most. Many of these programs do not cost parents anything, ensuring accessibility for all families regardless of financial background.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
The club’s influence stretches far beyond the field. Every year, dozens of players secure college scholarships, and hundreds more benefit from mentorship programs, character-building initiatives, and community outreach supported and sponsored by community partners like Buffalo's Cafe and Northside Hospital Cherokee.
One of the most impactful programs, Strive for 23, was developed in collaboration with Cherokee High School. The initiative encourages students to earn the 23 credits required to graduate by integrating soccer as a motivational tool. The program has been a remarkable success, helping students stay in school, develop discipline, and achieve their academic goals.
“Strive for 23 is more than a program—it’s a lifeline for many students,” says Roddie. “It provides accountability, structure, and encouragement to kids who need that extra push.”
From players who rise through the ranks of Georgia Impact to those who transition into coaching, refereeing, or community leadership, the club's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals is evident.
As Georgia Impact continues to grow, it remains rooted in one simple truth:
Investing in youth is investing in the future.
How You Can Be a Part of the Impact
Want to support the next generation of young athletes and community leaders? Attend a match, volunteer, or contribute to the Cherokee Youth Foundation. Visit GAImpact.com to learn more and be part of something bigger.
“The coaches & staff continue to support and invest in my journey.” – Gabriella Etienne.
“The larger we grow, the more opportunities we can provide for the community” – Robert Roddie