A Lucky Call Changes Everything
Ten-year-old Bailey DeWitt from Macon, Georgia, never expected that a routine video call would land her and her mother, Susanna DeWitt, in the stands of a FIFA Men's World Cup match in Atlanta. The call, arranged by Verizon Wireless, connected them with professional soccer player Giselle Thompson, who surprised the duo by gifting them tickets to the Spain versus Cabo Verde fixture.
The experience was more than a thrill; it was a catalyst. Having played soccer since the age of three, Bailey says the match ignited a deeper passion for the sport. "I want to wear the U.S. Women's Team jersey at the World Cup one day," she told the caller, expressing a dream that now feels within reach.
Beyond the Ticket Giveaway
While the Verizon Wireless promotion offered a singular pathway to the stadium, organizers have announced additional opportunities for fans to secure seats at upcoming Atlanta matches. Programs such as FIFA Fan Fest, Airbnb experiences, and the Showcase Atlanta initiative are opening doors for a broader audience of soccer enthusiasts.
Bailey's story reflects a growing trend of young athletes drawing inspiration from global tournaments. Her ambition to join the U.S. Women's Team underscores the impact of grassroots engagement with the sport, a narrative that resonates with coaches, families, and community programs nationwide.