Villanova, Pa. - The Clark family consists of five children, Allison, Veronica, Carolynn, Edward, and Suzanne. Carolynn, is currently a fifth year senior on the field hockey team, while her youngest sister, Suzie, is a freshman on the team as well.

The Clark sisters have never played on the same team before, until now. Carolynn has watched her play over the years, but they have never played competitively on the same team. "Needless to say, I was very excited to finally have an opportunity to play together," Carolynn states.

Carolynn is a fifth year senior majoring in psychology, minoring in business and criminology. She originally never planned on taking her fifth year. It was a nice option to have, but she never seriously considered it, until about half-way during last season. "Joanie brought up the idea to me during a meeting. The coaching staff was very supportive and encouraged the idea." They helped her plan out various options with her coursework and schedule. "With the construction of the West End one project and talk about a new field hockey field facility in the near future, the extra year became more and more appealing. After my sister committed, it was an extra bonus!"

In the beginning of last year, the Clark sisters never imagined having the chance to play together, especially for Carolynn's last year. It was quite the surprise for both. Carolynn knew Suzie was considering Villanova as a potential school, but she was not involved with her decision. "I wanted her to make the decision on her own and weigh her options. It is a big decision and I knew she would make the right decision for herself," said Carolynn.

Suzie ended up choosing Villanova for several reasons. She loved the beautiful campus, the welcoming people, the academic opportunities, playing the sport she loves, field hockey, and the extra added bonus of her sister Carolynn being at Villanova. Suzie "felt Villanova can provide the most opportunities in life, while still having fun being on a team and making many friends." Suzie did choose Villanova for the field hockey program and for the comfort of Carolynn being at the same school. She was also given the opportunity to study nursing and being accepted into that program is an honor.

After much thought for both Clark sisters weighing out their futures, they are now playing field hockey together for the first and last time this season. Head coach Joanie Milhous says, "We love having the Clark sisters on our team. When you have a great family, you just want all of them to come and play for you. We were thrilled when Carolynn decided to stay for her fifth year, which then allowed her to play with her sister Suzie for this one special year at Villanova."

Overall, it has been great for both sisters, but also for the entire Clark family. Suzie states that it was a great relief for her parents to watch the two of them play on the same field, rather than having to travel to two different places. "It also has to be exciting for my parents to see the two of us out there together, considering Carolynn and I have never had the opportunity to play on the same team before. I know that for me, it is such a great feeling to have my older sister with me to support me, and direct me, so my family loves watching that connection."

It is still very early on in the season, but so far, Carolynn and Suzie have enjoyed their time together. "Playing with Carolynn is some of the most fun I've ever had on a team before. It's amazing to have her there to joke around with and also get advice from. She is always so helpful and encouraging of me, which makes the transition from high school, to college, that much easier," said Suzie. As for Carolynn, she's been just as thrilled, "It has been great! I really do enjoy it! Although it is still early in the season, it has been fun watching her grow as a player, teammate, friend, and individual. I know there will be great things for her, in her future as a Villanova Student-Athlete. As we have shared a room growing up, Suzie and I have always been very close. I am fortunate to get this opportunity to play with one of my best friends and sister."

As another extra bonus, the Clark sisters are very close and speak so highly about each other.

Carolynn about Suzie: "I think sometimes she does not realize just how amazing she is. She is very talented in all aspects of her life and I hope she knows how proud I am to call her my sister."

Suzie about Carolynn: "Carolynn is not just my sister, but also my best friend. She is always there for me when I need advice, a laugh, or just someone to vent to. I have always looked up to her and continue to find inspiration in everything she does. To have Carolynn with me for my first year of college, is a true blessing, not just with field hockey, but also with classes and social life. I could not have asked for a better situation coming into college with having Carolynn here with me."

With the Villanova Field Hockey team just four games into the season, they still have plenty of time to appreciate the moments they are given together on and off the field. As an unexpected surprise for both sisters, their family, and for head coach Milhous, this season will definitely be one to remember for all. Be sure to follow Carolynn and Suzie Clark this fall season as they play field hockey for the first and last time together.