Dothan, Alabama, known for its quiet charm and Southern hospitality, has long lacked the excitement of high-level athletic competition. That changed with the arrival of Dothan United, the town’s brand new USL team. Among the team’s standout players is Alec Palanjian, a local talent whose journey from a young, multi-sport athlete to a professional soccer player is inspiring the community.
Roots in Dothan: A Passion Ignited Early
Alec Palanjian’s soccer story began at the age of three. Growing up in Dothan, Alec was an all-around athlete, dabbling in baseball, basketball, BMX biking, and tennis. However, it was soccer that truly captured his heart leading up to his high school years, when he knew he wanted to take soccer a step further.
From age eight, Alec played for the Dothan Shockers, a local club that provided him with a foundation in the sport. His coaches, Julian Dutton, Scott Hogan, Magnus Stjenstrom, Seaborn Wood, Joe Nelson and Phillip Brebels, played crucial roles in his development, who have also all majorly impacted the sports landscape here in Dothan. David Mosely is also credited to keeping Alec in paramount shape throughout the years. “They taught me so much, created my passion for the sport, and opened doors for me to compete at higher levels,” he recalls. Alec’s talent earned him opportunities to represent Alabama and the Southeast region in the United States Olympic Development Program (USODP) and train with elite academies both in the U.S. and Italy.
He continued his athletic and academic journey at Auburn University in Montgomery, majoring in exercise science with double minors in sports nutrition and strength and conditioning. Alec is now playing Division I soccer at the University of Central Arkansas during his fifth year.
A Dream Realized: Bringing Pro Soccer to Dothan
When Alec heard the news about a USL team coming to Dothan, he was elated. “I was finishing up my college season when I got the news. It felt like a dream come true,” he says. For Alec, having a high-level soccer team in his hometown means no more long commutes or relocating to just to train and compete. For many young athletes, location is not an obstacle. “To have this opportunity right here at home is truly something special. I am so excited to be part of Dothan United.”
The introduction of Dothan United has brought a new level of quality, athleticism, and competition to the town. The team has filled a significant void, providing a new level of sports, entertainment and a sense of pride for the local community.
Playing for Dothan United means more to Alec than just professional advancement; it’s about representing his roots. “To play in front of my family, friends, mentors, and role models from the community is a special experience,” he says. The overwhelming support from fans during the home opener was a moment Alec will never forget. “Seeing the people who have supported me throughout my life in the stands was incredible.”
A High Level Environment
The professionalism of Dothan United has been a new and exciting challenge for Alec. “I’ve never played for a team as refined and on point as this,” he admits. The high-level environment is pushing Alec to grow and improve daily. “It’s a challenge every day, but I’m learning so much and getting better.” Alec has clear goals for the season: to earn more playing time, to help the team on the pitch, and to enjoy a long, successful season. In the long term, he dreams of winning conference and national championships with Dothan United. On and off the field, Alec vows to contribute his best effort every day, bringing positivity and good nature to the team.
“At this level, nothing is given; you have to earn everything. I just put my head down and work every day,” he says.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Alec hopes to inspire young athletes in Dothan by showing them that success is possible with hard work and dedication. Alec’s journey from local fields to the professional stage serves as a powerful reminder to the young fans that dreams are within reach. Alec is determined to build a strong connection between the team and local fans. Alec emphasizes the importance of enjoying every moment and maximizing every opportunity in one’s passion.
Alec Palanjian is a standout player for the newly established Dothan United. His journey from local fields and programs to professional soccer embodies dedication and community pride. Alec’s presence brings inspiration to Dothan, encouraging young athletes to pursue their dreams. With his positive mindset and hard work, Alec is a beacon of hope and excitement for his hometown.
Article by Liana Shapiro