THOMASVILLE — Maybe all the Thomasville Bulldogs soccer team needed was consistency in its schedule to find a rhythm and sprint out to an impressive 11-1-1 start to the season.

“We’re getting there. I think we’ve still got some growth to try to improve several things,” Thomasville coach Robert Peterson said. “I don’t think we’re a finished product. We’re going to have to get a little better before playoffs, for sure.”

The Bulldogs’ growth this season was delayed due to cancellations stemming from COVID-19 and rainouts early in the season. But they’ve reeled off 11 wins in 13 matches so far this season. After more than a week off, the Bulldogs return to the field on Friday with a trip to Atkinson County. 

Peterson credits his team’s makeup in its pursuit of repeating as Class AA champions, following its title in 2019.

“It’s a special group of kids that’s really excelled on the field and in the classroom. One of the things I’m most proud of, I tell them all the time, our team GPA is 3.68 which is unheard of as a team,” Peterson said. “The best players I have are always smart kids because they’re able to apply concepts and movement of the ball and have to do it on the run. Once the whistle blows for soccer, there’s no timeouts. They’ve got to problem solve for themselves and make adjustments together on the field. I can adjust the formation and make a sub. It is a player’s sport for sure.”

The Bulldogs are a balanced team with juniors Andrew Geyer and Matthew Lewis leading a potent offensive attack. Senior goalkeeper William Rainey and defender Christian Cristie also provide veteran leadership and experience.

“It’s a good group of kids that’s buying in to whatever’s going on,” Peterson said.

The Bulldogs, who have already clinched the Region 1-AA championship, last played on March 30 when they defeated Thomas County Central 2-0.