THOMASVILLE, Ga. (WALB) — A Thomasville Bulldog who battled injuries and a mid-career move is headed to the college level. William Marler signed his letter of intent to continue his baseball career at Shorter University.

Marler came to the Rose City late in his high school career and had to adjust quickly — not just to a new team, but also while working through injuries. Even with those setbacks, he stayed the course and kept putting in the work.

“It feels great. I just feel like all the work I’ve put in over the years has finally benefited me and just everything I’ve done so far. It’s just a great feeling overall,” Marler said.

When Marler first arrived at Thomasville, coaches thought he might make his biggest impact as a left-handed pitcher. Instead, he found his place in center field, where he became part of a Bulldogs team and clubhouse he said welcomed him right away.

“For me, it was pretty easy. I mean, all these guys are easy to get along with. They’re just super fun to be around, and I feel like I fit in right away. I get along with all these guys. I enjoy being around them, and I just always have a great day practicing,” Marler said.

Marler is set for his next chapter in Rome, where he said Shorter University checked the boxes both on and off the field. From the school’s location to its Christian foundation, Marler said the fit felt right.

“Shorter stood out because they’re a Christian school. I think God has helped me throughout my life, just gets me where I’m at now, and I can’t thank Him enough,” Marler said. “It just feels great knowing I have all these people behind me. And especially my parents. They’ve helped me throughout my whole life.”

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