Dawson County Varsity Boys Soccer

Head Coach: Patrick Muenchen, fifth season

2022 Record: 7-8-2 overall, 3-4 in Region 7-3A

Key Returners: Junior Sanchez (So., Midfielder), Saul Ruiz (So., Forward), Hector Tenorio (So., Midfielder/Winger)

Dawson County Varsity Girls Soccer

Head Coach: Chess Hamby, sixth season

2022 Record: 4-8-3, 2-5 in Region 7-3A

Key Returners: Melodie Martin (So., Forward), Daisy Vargas Sanchez (Sr., Midfielder), Elena Nelson (So., Defender)

While both of the Dawson County varsity soccer programs may be in a transition period, that won’t stop them from setting strong expectations for their upcoming seasons.

On the boys side, the departure of six seniors from last season’s squad means that a talented trio of sophomores will be tasked with helping lead a team that has vastly improved in recent times.

After posting a two-win season in 2021, the Tigers took on 2022 with a completely different look, with captain Erick Sanchez and leading scorer Jose Sandoval leading the team to seven wins.

As important as the improved record was, the team showed each week that their cohesion was also becoming a strength, culminating in a 6-3 win over rival North Hall.

By the end of last season, the Tigers had earned themselves the chance to play for a state playoff appearance, falling short in the season finale against Cherokee Bluff.

But with the realigned Region 7, the Tigers will look forward to a season full of potential.

Dawson’s path to success this season will likely run through the defense, which will need to be in top form to allow the offense to create scoring opportunities.

Returning players such as Cole Palmer and Asher Morris will be important to the team’s setup for a schedule that includes a wide variety of non-region opponents.

For the Lady Tigers, the departure of all three senior captains from last season also means that the younger players will need to play important leadership roles on the team. 

The girls team saw plenty of improvement last year, increasing their win total from a single victory in 2021 to four in 2022. Additionally, the team managed three draws and generally looked more competitive in most games. 

Offensively, the Lady Tigers will be led by freshman Melodie Martin, who scored nine goals in her freshman campaign. While much of her support from the midfield and wing will also be young this season, it is senior Daisy Vargas Sanchez who may be the focal point of the team’s structure.

Players such as Addison Autrey, Izzy Sheer, Elena Nelson and many others will look to continue their own improvements after playing frequently last season. 

Both of the Dawson County varsity teams will begin their seasons this Friday, Jan. 27, with home scrimmage matches against Cartersville.