ALLENDALE, Mich., — The odds of two sisters winning separate national soccer championships on the same day isn't likely, but Katie and Sarah Klunder did just that.
"I never thought this would happen, we're just trying to get through exams," said Sarah, who is on Spring Arbor University's NAIA Division soccer team, while sister Katie, is on Grand Valley State University's Division ll soccer squad.
Both sisters have enjoyed soccer since they were young. The coincidental wins happened last week.
"Our parents got us into it. Ever since we've started, I think we've both had a dream to continue because we've loved it so much," Katie said.
December 5th, the pairs' parents made it to both games.
The games were a half hour drive away from each other. Katie's games were held in Pensacola, Florida and Sarah's game held in Orange Beach, Alabama. Both games, held so close together, made it easy for family to attend.
"I had to run up to my parents, hold their hands, cry with them for a second. Then they took off, changed their outfits into Spring Arbor gear, and headed to watch Sarah play," Katie said. "What are the odds that everything would just work out perfectly? Our parents got to see everything, it was so much fun."
The sisters aren't just impressing family, but coaches as well. Jeff Hostler is GVSU's head woman's soccer coach. Hostler says his team worked hard to prepare themselves for this opportunity.
"It's pretty remarkable for them to be able to share that both as sisters as a family in the community" said Hostler.
These soccer sisters say family is very important to them. Their parents are their biggest inspiration.
"We have such great support system. When you hear your name being called every single game makes you work that much harder" said Sarah.
"Playing soccer has been the best experience of my life. I'm so thankful that I made the decision to play in college. I've made friends that I’ll have for a lifetime and memories that I'll never forget" said Katie.
Katie plans to graduate in the spring from Grand Valley State University and major in Advertising and Public Relations. Sarah will graduate in a couple years from Spring Arbor University and major in Secondary Education.
