Jan. 27, 2006

Story by Breana Krotz | Photography by Rick Fatica

Ohio Athletics has taken competition to another level -- this time with a little sibling rivalry.

Here, meet four pairs and a threesome of Bobcats who share a love for the same sports. In all, eight families can claim more than one member involved in intercollegiate athletics on campus this year.

Whether recruited by an older brother or sister's coach, intrigued by academic or athletic offerings or enchanted by the campus, these brother-brother, brother-sister and sister-sister combos are happy to be in school with their sibs, rivals or not.

"Having multiple members of families competing or coaching for the Ohio Bobcats is nothing new. Alumni may remember the Green brothers, who were outstanding kickers on the football team throughout the 1970s," says Assistant Athletic Director Derek Scott. "But to have so many kids competing right now who have siblings competing here at the same time is pretty amazing."
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The Blackburn sisters may be known for their digs and kills on the volleyball court, but what few know is that the duo also is quite the crafty pair.

While Stephanie has taken to knitting, Michaele likes to sew and cook.

"It's fun," says Stephanie, a sophomore. "Some people are surprised that we have time for hobbies outside of volleyball, but it's relaxing."

The Cincinnati sisters say playing on the same team in college has been like high school all over again.

"We've always been really close. We enjoy the team setting and get along really well," says Michaele, a junior. "We've had so many great memories. Few sisters can say they played a sport together both in high school and during their college years. It's been a unique and amazing opportunity."

Growing up, the two remember causing trouble together, too.

"One of the windows in Michaele's room led to the roof. So we decided to see what it was like up there," Stephanie says. "She tied a couple of jump ropes together and then tied it around my waist, and there we were, standing on the roof, checking out the neighborhood. It didn't last for long. The neighbor called our mom and told her what we were up to."

Stephanie, known to her sister as "Peppy," and Michaele, aka "Mel" or "Mellie," spend time together off the court, too. And, in true sisterly fashion, even these tight-knit sisters fight over a great outfit.

"She's always butting in front of the mirror when I'm trying to get ready," Michaele says. "And she tries to fit into my clothes!"