At times, getting along with siblings can be a challenging task, whether it be at home or at school, but can be even more arduous out on the soccer field. However, it can also be one of the best experiences of ones high school career.
For these sisters, soccer has been a great way for them to bond and strive for the same goal, which is winning the WSL Valley Championship.
Annalise, ’14, and Julianna Rosik, ’16, have been attending FC since kindergarten. These sisters have utilized their love for soccer, as a way to grow in further in their relationship with each other, and to improve in their skills for the game.
Both Julianna and Annalise have been a part of the varsity soccer team since they were freshmen. With a combined number of 22 years of experience behind them, they have well earned their starting position for the current season.
“I have never felt competitive with my sister on the soccer field,” Annalise said. “I think that is mostly because we play on completely separate parts of the field and we have different skill-sets.”
Along with the Rosiks, sisters Mikayla, ’14, and Courtney Messer, ’16, both hold a tremendous amount of passion for the game. Soccer comes naturally for this sisterly duo, using their skills and speed, adding a spark to the offensive side of the FC girls soccer team.
The Messer sisters have been attending FC since the seventh grade, they both have played soccer for 12 years and have high hopes of playing outside of high school.
“I enjoy playing with my sister, we understand each other,” Courtney said. “We find unity between each other because we both play in the center. I can always count on having my back when we play. We communicate very well, and when we have some of the hardest positions on the field, communication is crucial.”
Coach, Tony Martinez has utilized the bond between his players, and is excited to see what will come from the sisters.
“It’s enjoyable to see when all the sisters are on the field and the way they interact with each other (sister wise),” Martinez said. “Although the team feels like a family, it is special when sisters are on the same team and play at the same time.”
Soccer can be a fast-paced, intense, sport. Frustrations may develop throughout the season, and at times, conflict may appear between teammates. But for these sisters, conflict is something unknown for them.
According to others they work great with other on and off the field. Rounding out the sister aspect of the soccer team, sisters Katie, ’14, and Jennifer King, ’17, have a great passion for the game.
“Playing on the same team as my sister, I find a sense of unity,” Kaitie said. “We don?t necessarily feel competitive with each other. She?s my sister, and when she performs well or I perform well in a game, I?m not only happy for her but also for the team.”
Martinez appreciates the encouragement the sisters show to each other. He enjoys viewing the older sisters setting good examples for their younger siblings on and off the field.
“It is interesting and unique to have three pairs of sisters on the team,” Martinez said. “It is very nice to see the sister bond from a family side of view. I appreciate the older sisters showing the maturity, leadership and skills for the younger sisters to emulate as they flourish in not only soccer, but in life as well.
This writer can be reached via Twitter: @Ivettedibarra. Follow The Feather via Twitter: @thefeather.
For more sports, read the Jan. 21 article, Boys soccer sports shorts: Fowler.