U-16 striker Omar Balcazar has been named Academy Player of the Month for October.
Omar has impressed his coaches with his work rate and development in his three years with Atlanta United.
“Omar is a hard-working player that shows up for practice with the mindset to get better every day,” U-16 head coach Kevin Kratz said.
He was an impact player for the U-15's last season, showcasing his ability to take on defenders 1v1 and finish with both feet. He helped lead the U-15's to a second-place finish in the Southeast Division of MLS NEXT, scoring 13 goals and six assists on the year.
He’s on pace to hit that mark again with five goals in eight games this season.
“It is a pleasure to work with him because you see the intensity he brings to training and games,” Kratz said. “He can get on the ball and impact the game with his actions in almost every moment of the game.”
Balcazar and the U-16s closed out a stellar month with a 6-0 victory over AFC Lightning on Saturday.
He looks to add to his tally and continue his excellent run of form on Saturday, Nov. 13 when they take on Kalonji Soccer Academy, noon ET, at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground.