Kobe Perez
Induction
2025
Graduation
2015
Sport
Soccer
Type
Athlete
Kobe Perez stands as one of the most decorated soccer players in Dalton High School history. A dynamic midfielder and leader, he helped guide the Dalton High School Catamounts to three consecutive state championships (2013, 2014, 2015) and an unprecedented 64–0–1 record during that span. In his senior season, Kobe tallied 25 goals and 10 assists, leaving a lasting mark on one of the most dominant runs in Georgia high school soccer history.
Kobe continued his playing career at Mercer University, where he made an immediate impact as a freshman—starting 19 of 20 matches, earning All-Freshman Team honors and being named Mercer Soccer Newcomer of the Year.
Throughout his collegiate career, he was a key figure in Mercer’s rise to national prominence:
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2016 – Helped lead the Bears to a Conference Championship and their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1992.
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2017 – Contributed to a second consecutive Conference Championship, was named to the Southern Conference All-Tournament Team, and made another NCAA Tournament appearance.
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2018 – Served as team captain, leading Mercer to a Regular Season Championship while recording 4 goals and 4 assists.
In 2019, Kobe achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first player from Dalton, Georgia to sign a professional soccer contract, joining Tormenta FC of USL League One. His professional journey continued with:
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2019 – Signing first professional contract with Tormenta FC.
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2020 – Signing with Union Omaha.
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2021 – Returning to Tormenta FC and earning a call-up to the Guatemala national football team training camp in preparation for the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup and 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
From an undefeated high school career to the professional ranks and international recognition, Kobe Perez’s journey reflects excellence, leadership, and a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of Dalton soccer players.
