THOMASVILLE – The Thomasville Bulldogs hit the gridiron for the first time to begin spring football on Wednesday.

“I was really pleased with day one,” said Thomasville head coach Jonathan DeLay. “A lot of times day one is easy because everyone is excited. They’re ready to go.”

Thomasville began spring practice on Wednesday, April 30. The Bulldogs will be replacing some solid talent, on the line of scrimmage especially with players like Keymon Jefferson, Geremiah Humbert, Bryce Metcalf, and Brandon Myrick heading to college. They will also be looking to add some depth at linebacker and running back after guys like Ahmad Thomas, Kiff Parrish, and Ant Anderson graduated.

“We have a bunch of guys back. Obviously, we’re trying to replace a couple guys on the offensive line, defensive line, and a couple linebackers,” DeLay said. “But for a first day of spring I thought we really got after it, flying around. I saw a lot of growth from the last time I saw these guys on the practice field.”

Last year it was all about connection for the Bulldogs. This year they are looking to elevate that philosophy on and off the field.

“We’re looking for an elite level of connection. We talked last year, and connection was our big word for the year and how we tried to make stuff go but we are trying to push it to that next level,” DeLay said. “It doesn’t matter if you’re the starter or you’re the guy who’s supposed to be the hype guy on the sideline. I want those two guys to have a relationship that transcends the football field.”

Spring also serves as a time for coaches to pick out players who can contribute. It’s a proving ground for players who may not be on everyone’s radar.

“Every spring there is a kid or kids that are surprises,” said DeLay. “Ones that you didn’t think were going to make an impact on this team that you find in the spring and go, ‘alright we have some more depth right there’. And you never know who they are until you get there. That’s what I’m most excited about.”