Meaning:
Arthur Blank, the co-founder of Home Depot and owner of the Atlanta Falcons, made the above statement in reference to his acquisition of the Atlanta United soccer team in 2017. This quote encapsulates Blank's deep devotion to the city of Atlanta, his love for sports, and his unyielding drive to succeed in the world of competition.
Blank's commitment to Atlanta is evident in his long-standing involvement in the city's business and sports endeavors. As the co-founder of Home Depot, a company that has its headquarters in Atlanta, Blank has played a significant role in the city's economic growth and development. His dedication to the community is further demonstrated through his ownership of the Atlanta Falcons, a position he has held since 2002. Under his leadership, the Falcons have made substantial investments in the city, including the construction of the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which has become a symbol of Atlanta's resurgence as a major sports and entertainment hub.
In addition to his commitment to the city, Blank's passion for sports and competition is a driving force behind his success as a sports team owner. His love for sports is not only evident in his ownership of the Falcons and Atlanta United but also in his efforts to promote youth sports and fitness programs through the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. This passion for sports and the positive impact they can have on individuals and communities has been a driving force in his decision-making as a sports franchise owner.
The acquisition of Atlanta United represented a natural extension of Blank's commitment to Atlanta and his passion for sports. Soccer, as the world's most popular sport, has been gaining momentum in the United States, and Blank recognized the potential for growth and success in the sport, particularly in a diverse and dynamic city like Atlanta. The acquisition allowed Blank to further solidify his imprint on the city's sports landscape and to pursue his vision of creating a world-class soccer team that would captivate Atlanta's passionate sports fans.
Blank's statement reflects his belief that the acquisition of Atlanta United was a perfect fit for him. It underscores his confidence in the alignment of his personal values and aspirations with the opportunities presented by the acquisition. The quote also conveys his enthusiasm for the challenge of building a successful soccer franchise and his determination to excel in the highly competitive world of professional sports.
In conclusion, Arthur Blank's quote encapsulates his unwavering commitment to Atlanta, his deep passion for sports, and his relentless pursuit of success in the realm of competition. His acquisition of Atlanta United was a testament to his belief that it was the perfect fit for him, given his profound connection to the city and his fervent love for sports. Blank's vision and dedication continue to shape the sports landscape of Atlanta, leaving an indelible mark on the city and its communities.