For Ashlyn and Whitley McCreary playing soccer together is more than just a game, it’s an experience that strengthens both their skills and their bond as sisters.
“It’s fun; sometimes we fight and argue, but that’s normal,” Ashlyn, who is a freshman, admitted.
Whitley, a junior, agreed, adding that having her sister on the team makes the game more enjoyable.
“We get to challenge each other and poke fun without worrying about overshadowing or hurting each other’s feelings.”
That balance of competition and support pushes them to grow as athletes.
“Yes, I think it makes us practice harder so we can be better than each other,” Ashlynn explained.
Whitley said, “ We’re comfortable with each other so we can practice our weak spots without worrying about embarrassing ourselves. We’re both honest with each other about what we can work on.”
The sisters also share plenty of laughter along the way. Ashlyn recalled yelling at Whitley to pass the ball during a game, only for the pass to go in a completely different direction. Whitley, on the other hand, remembered a moment in their New Albany game when Ashlyn tripped over an opposing player.
“From where I was standing, it looked like she had fallen face first into the player’s back side, which made me laugh. I brought it up at halftime, which embarrassed her.”
This goes to show that they have their laughs while trying to embarrass each other.
When it comes to their relationship on the field, the sisters agree it’s a mix of both support and competition.
“I’d say we’re more supportive than competitive,” Ashlyn said. “After games, we talk about what we each could have done better and what we need to work on.”
Whitley added, “I’d say it’s 50/50, we both challenge each other, but we also heavily support each other to keep up our confidence.”
Looking ahead, both are certain they’ll continue to share the field.
“One hundred percent!” Ashlynn said. “It’s a guarantee we’re playing next year.”
Whitley agreed, “I would absolutely love to play soccer again with her next year and in another sport we find ourselves in.”
For the McCreary sisters, soccer isn’t just about wins and goals, it’s about growing, laughing and working side by side.