05/21/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/21/2025 11:37
SOUTH FULTON, GA - (May 21, 2025) - The City of South Fulton's Department of Parks and Recreation, in partnership with Legacy Leadership Academy, proudly announces that the Legacy Raiders 8U Shock Squad has been officially named regional champions following an exceptional performance at the Atlanta Falcons NFL FLAG Regional Tournament.
This distinguished accomplishment secures the team's advancement to the NFL FLAG National Championships, scheduled to take place July 17-20, 2025, at the historic Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. This event will provide national visibility for both the athletes and the City of South Fulton.
The 8U Shock Squad is comprised of nine exemplary youth athletes (eight male and one female), all of whom are residents and students within the South Fulton community. Representing schools such as Palmetto Elementary and E.C. West Elementary, these athletes are coached by a committed cadre of volunteer coaches who also reside in the city and demonstrate extraordinary civic dedication.
This milestone represents a historic first for the Legacy Leadership Academy, the Department of Parks and Recreation, and the broader South Fulton community. It marks the inaugural occasion in which a team from the city's NFL FLAG League-hosted at Wilkerson Mill Park-will compete at the national level, a testament to the growing impact and reach of local youth sports initiatives.
Ternard Turner, Director of Parks and Recreation stated, "This is a moment of pride for the City of South Fulton. The partnership with Legacy Academy, which has made the Legacy Raiders 8U Shock Squad a reality, demonstrates the profound impact of community collaboration, dedication, and opportunity in supporting our youth. This historic achievement underscores the transformative power of youth sports to inspire, unite, and uplift our community. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Atlanta Falcons for their generous support of the team's upcoming journey to the national stage."
"This is bigger than football-it's about pride, purpose, and proving what's possible when a community believes in its youth, said Dwaine Thomas, CEO and President of Legacy Leadership Academy. "The success of the Legacy Raiders 8U Shock Squad is a reflection of the support they receive from their families, coaches, and the entire community. We are excited to cheer them on and celebrate their achievements."
In a demonstration of corporate-community partnership, the Atlanta Falcons organization has generously committed to assisting with travel-related expenses, thereby alleviating some of the financial challenges faced by the team's families and coaching staff.
Thanks to 11Alive for their ongoing coverage.To commemorate this achievement and spotlight the broader significance of youth athletics in community development, 11Alive Sports (WXIA-TV, Channel 11) is slated to air a special segment featuring the team and coaches.
The City of South Fulton applauds the Legacy Raiders 8U Shock Squad for their outstanding representation of our community and wishes them continued success on the national stage.
Event Details:
NFL FLAG National Championships
Pro Football Hall of Fame, Canton, OH
July 17-20, 2025
Watch live broadcasts July 18-20 on:
DISNEY+, ESPN, ESPN+, and ABC
###
About the City of South Fulton
The City of South Fulton, one of Georgia's largest and fastest-growing municipalities, is home to more than 115,000 residents. Spanning over 90 square miles, it offers a unique blend of urban and rural landscapes, featuring the largest expanse of undeveloped land on the southern edge of metro Atlanta. Since its incorporation on May 1, 2017, South Fulton has emerged as a thriving destination for families, businesses, and innovators. As a forward-thinking city committed to growth, sustainability, and community engagement, South Fulton continues to shape the future of the region. Discover more about our community at www.CityofSouthFultonGA.gov or follow us on social media. The City of South Fulton, a City on the Rise.