If there is one thing you can never question about Wade Engelson’s team, it’s their effort.

And that’s been apparent through the first few weeks of the season especially on the defensive side of the ball as the Bulldogs have been able to fight through a handful of injuries including losing junior Darren Bailey in the first game of the season.

“We’re making progress and I’m really liking what I’m seeing so far,” Engelson said. “We got a great group of guys that come to practice every day, they work hard, they have a great attitude and they’re great teammates to one another.”

Sandpoint is 3-2 this season and is coming off completing a season sweep of Timberlake last Thursday. The Bulldogs head to the Eagle Classic at West Valley High on Thursday hoping to improve.

Engelson is looking for the Bulldogs to continue making steps toward being that team that other schools fear facing and wants to see them defend and execute at a higher level in Spokane.

One factor that could be potentially play a role in both of Sandpoint’s games at the tournament is the tipoff times.

The Bulldogs face Medical Lake at noon Thursday and East Valley at 9 a.m. Friday.

Sandpoint, like every other team at the tournament, is used to playing games late in the afternoon or at night so naturally there will be an adjustment period.

But Engelson said the early start times won’t affect his squad.

“If we want to be a successful team or program we have to be able to play whenever the game time is ... no excuses,” he said.

Regardless of the outcome of both games, Sandpoint will use this tournament as a chance to build momentum and confidence as they head into the most crucial part of their season.

“It’s a great opportunity for our guys and they are looking forward to it,” Engelson said.