Atlanta United FC Names BBBS Little Brother Honorary Captain for Upcoming Match
Friday, September 16th, 2022
MLS soccer club Atlanta United FC has named Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta (BBBSMA) Little Brother of the Year, Brayan, as their Honorary Captain for the September 17th match vs. Philadelphia Union at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Brayan will be accompanied by his family and his Big Brother, Christian Doetsch.
Big Brother Christian and Little Brother Brayan were awarded the honor of “Match of the Year” by BBBSMA staff this year. Brayan and Christian have been matched since March 2014 and quickly formed a bond over a shared love of soccer.
Brayan – an avid soccer player and fan – says he struggled with confidence at school early in their mentoring relationship. After moving to the U.S., Brayan dealt with bullying at school. With the encouragement of his family and Christian, Brayan has been able to ignite his potential – growing into a confident 16-year-old with an already impressive soccer career. Recovering from a broken leg suffered on the pitch early in 2022, Brayan is eager to get back to the sport he loves.
“I believe I would be a different person if Christian were not in my life,” said Brayan. “I love sports and will do my best to keep my dreams to be a soccer player and I will definitely have Christian with me. I know he supports my dreams.”
“With a little support, a Little can grow from a shy 8-year-old boy into an unstoppable soccer superstar with great grades, plenty of friends, and a bright future ahead,” shared Christian. “Defending potential is a constant reminder of a significant difference between mentorship and other types of youth programs. As Bigs, we teach them how to solve problems themselves.”
Brayan will take to the field prior to the 3:30 PM match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, September 17th. His family, and his Big Brother, will join him on the sidelines.
For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta visit: www.BBBSATL.org
