If you did a little research, you'd probably that that the Klonowski family tree is planted somewhere close to a softball field or soccer pitch.

  Like his older sisters, Kim and Stacey, Joe Klonowski is making a positive mark in his favorite sport at Plymouth High School.

  While his two older siblings are currently contributing to their respective collegiate softball programs, Joe Klonowski is making valuable contributions as a mid-fielder to the Plymouth soccer team.

  The tall, lanky senior has been one of the primary reasons the Wildcats entered this week among the top teams in the KLAA South Division.

  Klonowski took a few moments after a recent practice to speak with PlymouthCanotnSports.com's Ed Wright.

  ED WRIGHT: How did you get into soccer?

  JOE KLONOWSKI: I started playing when I was about 6, probably as a joke (smile). But I took it seriously and have been playing ever since.

  EW: Does your height help you much on the field?

  JK: It's definitely an advantage in the air. More than anything, though, it's probably an intimidation thing.

  EW: Do you want to play soccer after high school?

  JK: If the opportunity came up, I'd definitely look into it. I've applied to the University of Michigan, I'm just waiting to see if I get in. If I do, I don't think I'll be playing there.

  EW: What do you like about this year's team?

  JK: With 10 seniors, we definitely have a seasoned group. We have eight or nine seniors back from last year, so we should be pretty decent.

  EW: How is the team's chemistry?

  JK: It's great. We joke around a lot with each other and with Jeff, but we're serious when we need to be. A lot of us are friends away from soccer, which is a good thing.

  EW: What are a few of the highlights of your high school career that stand out?

  JK: Probably last year when we beat Livonia Churchill when they were undefeated and ranked No. 1. Another one was when I scored on a header in the first 30 seconds against Canton.

  EW: What degree do you want to pursue in college?

  JK: Electrical engineering.

  EW: What other sports besides soccer do you like?

  JK: I play a lot of golf with my dad and I throw the ball around a little with my sisters.