The Oglethorpe County High School boys soccer team enters the 2026 season with a new leader, a fresh perspective and a clear vision for the future.
Between a coaching change and a roster full of underclassmen, the Patriots are focused on player development.
Coach Brandon Thixton brings three years of experience after stints at Commerce and City University School of Independence in Memphis. He said he’s focused on a philosophy centered around one question: “What is a good teammate?”
“What does it look like? How are you doing it right now?” Thixton said. “How are you gonna do it?”
Thixton said the team is buying into his philosophy.
The emphasis in training has shifted toward higher intensity and purposeful drills, a change senior striker Clint Graham said is pushing the players.
“We have a bunch of young players this year, so just slowly (building) the chemistry,” Graham said. “They’re gonna (pick) up the pace to the high school level. And once we get to that point, I think we’ll have a really good chance this year.”
Strategy: High intensity
Fans can expect a more aggressive tactical approach under Thixton. Graham said the team is also focusing on their response to losing the ball.
“We are going to work on our intensity whenever we get the ball stolen,” he said. “We’re gonna go 100% every time … then once we get the ball back, we are gonna slow it down and work around them and make the other team tired.”
Key matches
Two specific opponents have the eyes of the players and Thixton this season.
- Elbert County: A game that is personal for the Patriots. They lost 5-2 at Elbert County last season.”Last year, we got destroyed by them, and it wasn’t pretty,” Graham said. “Really hoping to go in there and change it up this time.”
- Commerce: This marks a significant homecoming for Thixton. “It’s always fun to go against somebody who you used to be a part of,” he said.
Players to watch
While the veterans lead the way, Thixton pointed out two sophomores who are ready to make a name for themselves: Saw Soe and Dylan Minthorn.
Both players bring natural skills and a love for the game. Thixton said Graham, the captain and vocal leader, sets the tone in practice. He also is the most experienced player, with four years on varsity.