The Southern Lions have a unique component to this year’s soccer team. Their roster features two sets of sisters, including a pair of twins, junior defenders Kacie and Kimberly Hulse.  Meanwhile, junior midfielder Hannah Ishmael welcomes her little sister, freshman defender Brooke Ishmael to the squad.

“We’ve had the twins for a couple years now,” said head coach Alese Wollard. “The nice thing about it is our team chemistry is pretty good, there a very close knit group.”

She added, “They fight like sisters and you probably couldn’t tell who they are if you’re just looking at them, but it’s always fun because you have those inside jokes and little squabbles from time to time.  They’re with each other day in and day out and they have that history; all four are very competitive players, so it’s kind of a fun family atmosphere all the way around.”

The family atmosphere helps with team chemistry but also has practical applications on the pitch.

“On the field it makes it a lot easier to communicate since we know each other so well,” said Kimberly Hulse.  “It helps that she’s not afraid to tell what I’m doing wrong, so it helps me become a better player,” she said of her sister.

The Hulses not only have the advantage of being twins but also of playing the same position.    

“Kimmy and I get along really well and are always together,” said Kacie Hulse. “We both play center back so it’s easier to communicate with one another and rely on each other to pick each other back up.”

This year isn’t the first time the Ishmaels have played together either.

“I got to play with her in high school and we had a lot of fun, so I’m excited to have her on the field with me, especially for my last two years of soccer,” said Hannah Ishmael.

“I really like playing with my sister on the field,” said Brooke Ishmael. “It can be hard at times because we butt heads, but it’s also nice because you always have someone to practice extra with if you need to work on something. Playing on the same team with my sister allows for us to bond.”

Brooke Ishmael also has the advantage of getting some sisterly advice whenever she needs it.

“She always has some type of advice to give to me,” she said. “She could tell me what I’m doing wrong as well as make sure when I make mistake that I keep my head up.”

All four sisters will be in action today at Rogers State. Kickoff is at 6 p.m.