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As fate would have it, once Yates announced he would not be returning, Turner, a 1989 Thomasville graduate, became the logical choice to take over the Bulldog soccer program. There’s a slight variation to the theme as Turner will also be the founding father to the new Lady Bulldogs soccer squad, starting with the team’s debut against West Davidson on March 3rd.
“This has been one of the most incredible experiences I have had,” Turner said. “The administration has been incredible and it’s a dream come true to come back and be able to coach at your old school.”
Thomasville had been the only school in the Yadkin Vallley 1A Conference without a girls soccer program. Turner still feels the Lady Bulldogs can compete right away. So far the turnout has exceeded Turner’s expectations as 37 girls showed up for opening tryouts with 23 being eligible for the season. Turner spent six seasons at South Davidson, giving him valuable knowledge about the YVC and the rest of the competition.
“It was a surprise but then again it wasn’t,” said Turner of the interest level for girls soccer. “It’s something new and exciting. There is definitely talent here.”
Turner had his fair share of success in Denton, going 16-6 in 2007 with the Wildcats. Spending time with the Thomasville boys at the close of last season gives Turner a leg up with them ,but the girls will be a totally different story in their first year. Turner has expectations for the Lady Bulldogs and doesn’t want them assuming defeat just because they are a fledgling program.
“I don’t’ want to put pressure on the girls,” Turner said. “I want them to understand that we are in a good conference, but it’s one we can compete in. I expect them to play hard and I guarantee we’ll get some wins.”
There have been a few standouts in the early going for the Lady Dogs, starting with Emily Styers, a midfielder and goalie. Turner says Styers is a very talented player who has the potential to star in the YVC. Alejandra Solis is another diamond in the rough, according to Turner, and he believes “she may be one of the most dominating players in the conference.” Fullback Sarah Baranowski is also a player to look out for.
“I want them to be physical and play aggressive,” said Turner. “The biggest difference between coaching the girls and boys is that I have to teach the girls more fundamentals.”
Turner expects Thomasville to be his last coaching job as his plate is already pretty full. Turner owns two businesses, is a pastor at the Church of Tomorrow and recently opened a homeless shelter. Now that he has taken on the soccer program, Turner wants to add championships instead of dwelling on the one the Bulldogs won three seasons ago.
“We need another ring,” Turner said. “I’m not one to dwell on the past. Making the playoffs is what we play for, and I feel we have a good chance to make it this year.”
Staff writer Eliot Duke can be reached at 472-9500, ext. 233 ,or at eliotduke@hotmail.com.