Whereas, on December 8, 2018, Atlanta United FC won the 2018 Major League Soccer ( MLS ) Cup championship; Whereas over 70,000 spectators filled Mercedes-Benz Stadium in downtown Atlanta to watch the MLS Cup championship; Whereas Atlanta United FC, with goals scored by Josef Martínez and Franco Escobar, defeated the Portland Timbers in the MLS Cup championship match with a score of 2–0; Whereas Atlanta United FC, known by their fans as the Five Stripes, won their first MLS Cup championship in only their second season playing in the MLS; Whereas Atlanta United FC succeeded in bringing the city of Atlanta its first major professional sports championship in 23 years; Whereas the dedicated fans of Atlanta United FC provided vocal strength and support to the club throughout the challenging 2018 MLS season; Whereas Atlanta United FC forward Josef Martínez, logging both a goal and an assist during the MLS Cup championship, was named most valuable player by the MLS for his achievements during the 2018 season; Whereas Gerardo Martino, head coach of Atlanta United FC, and the entire coaching and technical staff, demonstrated commendable composure and leadership throughout the MLS regular and postseasons; Whereas Darren Eales, club president, as well as the executive staff, provided tremendous guidance in leading Atlanta United FC to its first league championship; Whereas Arthur M. Blank, Atlanta United FC founder and owner, assembled an outstanding organization