WILSON EXTRA: Indians’ sister act irks Wilson

FISHERSVILLE

It was a sister power hour for Northumerland in the Group A quarterfinals Tuesday.

Though Northumberland lost to Wilson Memorial in three games, two Indians stood out amongst the rest of the pack, and not just because they’re identical twins.

Diane and Sarah Kelly controlled the Indians’ side of the court against the Hornets. The twins, standing at only 5-foot-2, took hits from the killer Hornets like they were nothing.

“You just got to get in front of those hard hits,” said Diane Kelly.

The twins aren’t just short compared to their monstrous teammates; they’re young, too. The Kellys are only in the ninth grade and start over a few of the seniors.

“We were kind of nervous to be with all older kids, but it was fun,” Diane said.

The two are the only ninth-graders on the varsity team.

“We just love the competition,” Sarah Kelly added.

Coach Bonnie Swann wasn’t afraid to take on the young pair. She knew what she was in for.

“They’re hustlers. They will dive all day long,” said Swann. “Then they go home after practice and hit some more in the yard.”

Diane and Sarah started their volleyball careers as managers in the sixth and seventh grade, watching their older sister, Mary, play. Yes, there’s another Kelly on the Northumberland team. Mary Kelly is a senior and enjoys playing with her younger sisters.

“Sometimes we get into little fights, but other than that we get along pretty well,” said Mary. “They deserved to make the varsity team.”

And, of course, Mary taught the duo everything they know about volleyball.

“We played outside in the yard a lot, so yea, they picked it up,” Mary said.

It’s not always cheerful on the court between the Kelly sisters, but little tiffs have never played against them.

“There can be a little bit of friction and sometimes I’ll even have to step in,” Swann said. “It’s usually between Mary and one of the twins, though. There’s a little attitude there, but they’re also very competitive.”

There’s also a reason why Diane is the libero and Sarah is a setter.

“They’re fun to coach, but I can’t tell them apart,” Swann said. “That’s why they wear different jerseys.”

Though volleyball is over for Mary, the twins have a good three years ahead of them.

“I’m excited to watch them grow,” Mary said. “I think they are going to be pretty good.”

Coach Swann echoed the sentiment.

“Sarah and Diane give you 110 percent all of the time,” Swann said. “They just love to play.”