A Game That Unites
As the biggest sport in the entire world, soccer has proven to transcend boundaries in bringing people together. In a diverse, growing city like Dothan, it is a sure unifying force. Whether participating in our legendary game day experience, or cheering in the stands, or hanging out with the team, or playing in the field, residents of all ages and backgrounds find common ground for the love of the sport! Dothan United is working to strengthen our community and bring new opportunities to everyone!
Economic and Cultural Impact

The presence of our soccer team in Dothan also brings undeniable economic benefits. The endless opportunities for local businesses of all kinds to get involved with our organization is unprecedented, generating new opportunities for each unique business to advertise, shine, and give back to their employees. Game days create great business for our area surrounding Rip Hewes Stadium, with people going before and after to shop, eat, and enjoy a summer night in downtown Dothan; for example, downtown Dothan lights up after game days, with staff, players, and fans alike all flocking to enjoy each other for post-game eats and refreshments – a summer environment we have not seen in the past. Our team provides great experiences for our local news stations, with new angles and stories to get behind. So, beyond the dollars and cents, the team gives Dothan a chance to showcase its culture and Southern hospitality to both home and visiting guests!
Opportunities for the Next Generation
For Dothan’s youth, soccer is more than just a pastime – it’s a pathway. There is no need to ramble on about the benefits of sports for adolescents, we already know the case here. From fostering discipline and teamwork to offering scholarships and career opportunities, the sport opens doors. This team gives our youth a unique sports experience, giving them a professional experience right here in their home town. Not only that, our commitment to being involved in youth programs during the summer season is even more engaging in keeping our youth excited to get active and inspires them to dream big!
Seeing former Shockers on the squad was a great feeling. The players were amazing with all of our younger Shockers that looked up to them. As a former coach for some of them, it was also a moment of great pride to see players achieving their goals. Our beautiful game has been growing for several years now, and having United here has pushed that growth even more. We hope everyone in our area will continue to develop a love of the game, both players and fans. Our players have loved being part of the mascots and ball kids last summer, and hopefully we can continue that for our future players.
Scott Hogan, Owner of the European Soccer Academy in Dothan, AL.
Hogan, who has played a big part in growing soccer here in our community, commented on the impact Dothan United has had on his youth programs and on the community. He also mentioned the pride he feels in seeing his students from the youth club teams, like the Dothan Shockers, in the stands and participating in activities on the field, and even having some of his former students on Dothan United’s roster.

A Growing Legacy
Dothan United FC is not just building a team; it is building a legacy. Soccer has given Dothan a revised identity – a dynamic, progressive community where sports, culture, and entertainment are rapidly intersecting.
Dothan isn’t just a city with a soccer team; it’s a city transformed by soccer. As the love for the game grows, so too does the spirit of the community. We are becoming more than just a peanut!
Stay tuned in the upcoming weeks for player signings and official schedule postings!
Article by: Liana Shapiro
Head photo by the City of Dothan
In article photos by Evergreen Creative Co.