Sisters Addison Russell (left) and Ella Russell (right) got the chance to play on the same volleyball team this season.

The sound of volleyballs smacking the ground and the smell of concession stand popcorn are mixed with the squeaks of shoes and bright fluorescent gym lights. Two of the Lady Bear Volleyball players warming up on the gym floor share a tighter bond than most – not just because they are good friends, but because they are sisters.   

This past volleyball season, senior Addison Russell and sophomore Ella Russell shared a first, in that they both played on the same varsity volleyball team.

“My favorite memory is us playing together against Vidor and winning our first district game,” Addison said. 

For every highlight, there are also usually some downfalls along the way – especially when playing with someone who you also go home with every night.

“My least favorite part about working with my sister is that there is competition,” Addison said. “We are the same position which occasionally leads to arguing.” 

According to Ella, her time spent with Addison on the court brings her back to when they were little kids.

“We would always play but then we would argue a lot,” Ella said. “Then we would forget about our argument five minutes later. We still do that exact same thing.” 

While being part of the same team can create its own challenges, both Ella and Addison said it can strengthen their relationship.

“We will always be each other’s number one supporter,” Ella said. “When one is down, the other always lifts them up.” 

As Addison continues on with her senior year, the girls admit it will be hard next year with them not playing on the same team anymore.

“I will miss the quality time we shared together on the court,” Addison said. 

According to the girls’ mother, Jessica Russell, when the girls both fell in love with volleyball, she hoped it would work out that they would eventually get to play together.

“The stars aligned this year, and they made memories,” Jessica said. “It’s even sweeter they play the same position and were able to sub for each other. Experiencing this as their mom was incredibly rewarding and nerve-racking at the same time. With our girls subbing for each other we didn’t have a moment to relax in a game. Their dad and I will cherish this volleyball season forever.”