LEESBURG, Ga. (WALB) - Twin brothers John and Noah Clippinger have been holding down the defense for Lee County soccer since they were little. After years of playing side by side, the seniors will be splitting up come fall 2026.

Their chemistry and experience helped lead the Trojans to a region title, which the brothers said was their favorite memory made with each other.

Playing together since childhood

“I mean it’s pretty cool. We got infinite chemistry with each other so we bounce the ball back between each other. We’ve been around each other forever, we’ve played soccer together since we were little, so by now, it’s just second nature,” John Clippinger said.

John and Noah are the products of a military family. Their father is a Marine, so the twins have moved several times including to North Carolina, Virginia, and now South Georgia. Both boys said they are glad they got to remain at Lee County all four years.

“It’s a dream come true. I mean, to be completely honest, starting high school, I had no idea where we would end up... but just being here, it’s great. It’s awesome. I wouldn’t change it for anything else,” Noah Clippinger said.

Different personalities

The twins share the same team and same position, but they have different interests outside of school and different friend groups.

“I’d say he’s a little more on the social side... He’s more willing to reach out and make new friends.... I’m more on the introverted side... I kind of stay to myself most of the time,” Noah Clippinger said.

That difference in personality is why John and Noah will be splitting up in the fall. John is heading to the University of Georgia to pursue a finance degree while Noah has chosen to head out of state to Ole Miss where he will major in sports management. It will be the first time in 18 years that the boys are not under the same roof.

“I don’t know if it’s hit me yet, to be honest. Obviously I’ve thought about it like, ‘Dang I’m gonna leave him,’ but it really hasn’t hit me yet and probably won’t until I leave him, you know? I’m sure I’m gonna be calling him everyday because it’s definitely going to be a culture shock without my brother,” John Clippinger said.

One last message

After years of sharing the same field and the same back line, the reality of going separate ways is starting to sink in. Before they do, the brothers shared one last message for the teammate who has always been more than that.

“I would tell him that I’m gonna love him and that I’m gonna miss him. I’m just glad I got to play soccer with him,” John Clippinger said.

“Go be great. Go be great at Georgia,” Noah Clippinger said.

While the Clippinger twins prepare to take the field together for the last time, they share one last goal. The region was clinched, but they are pursuing the 6A State title.

Congratulations to John and Noah Clippinger for being recognized as this week’s Valdosta State Scholar Athletes!

If you know an outstanding student-athlete, click here to nominate them.

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