Clarks end reign at Lakeside

A long tradition of Clark family soccer players at Lakeside High School officially came to an end on Wednesday afternoon.

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Caitlin Clark, the youngest of the four Clark siblings, signed a National Letter of Intent to play for Clayton State University.

"It's a little bittersweet," Clark said. "We've been here for so long."

As a small child, Caitlin practically grew up on the Lakeside sidelines.

Her sisters Emily and Jenny both played soccer at Lakeside, as did big brother Michael.

Augusta Arsenal coach Tommy Garcia has also coached the Clark kids for years.

"Her sisters before her were good soccer players," he said. "I remember when she was just a little girl she was at her sisters' practices and games and she told me, 'You're going to be my coach too.'"

Garcia did coach Caitlin eventually. When the youngest Clark sibling turned 10 years old she joined Garcia's team and has played for him ever since.

"In all that time I don't think she's missed two practices," Garcia said. "She is one of the few players I've coached who has her kind of focus."