Siblings can be a lot to handle, whether an older sibling takes priority over you or a screaming infant needs care. Siblings can be a load at home, but imagine playing sports with next of kin. The varsity volleyball team knows the ins and outs of playing on the court with siblings as there are three different sets of sisters who have played competitively together. Sophomore Holly Carlton, who played on varsity with her sister Kayla last season, explains that last season had its ups and downs in regard to playing with Kayla. “We could always talk about our problems together. This season is different because I don’t have anyone to rely on as much, but I like it because I can talk about things I wouldn’t have really wanted my sister to hear,” said Carlton. Although there were occasional mixed emotions, the experience with her older sister helped her fill out a role this year. “Not having [Kayla] on the team this year has helped me step up, especially now that I’m a captain.”

  Senior Makaely Thomas and her sister, freshman Kylie Thomas, can relate to Carlton’s experience last season, as they are playing out a similar scenario. “It helps my game because whenever one of us gets in a funk, we’re there to pick each other up,” says Makaely Thomas, “She’s always there to set me straight if I’m playing badly.” Improving on your game is a key component of every sport, and taking criticism is equally essential. The Headley twins, seniors Ivonne and Ivette, value having each other on the court because they can critique each other without taking any offense. “We always give each other honest answers. We both know we can always approach each other,” says Ivette Headley. Confidentiality is key in relating to each other for the Headley twins.  “We can always criticize each other, but no one hears because we usually speak in Spanish,” says Ivonne Headley.

  Aside from the competitive edge that a sister on the court can contribute, what really counts for Kylie Thomas is the quality time spent with her sister. “It’s good for sister bonding. We’ll make a lot of memories this season,” said Kylie Thomas. Things always remain amicable between the different sets of sisters regardless of  game events. “If we’re mad at each during the game, it never comes home with us. That goes with everyone,”said Kylie Thomas. Although there are only two sets of sisters that currently play together, the entire team is, and will remain, a family.