Bill sisters team up on and off volleyball court
By KATIE MCVOY
Sports Writer
Everyone has heard of the phrase "Like father, like son," but what about "Like sister, like sister?"
In a family where sibling rivalry never found a home, Agnes and Ann Bill found true friendship while being teammates.
Senior Agnes and freshman Ann are both players for the Saint Mary's volleyball team this year. Agnes is an outside hitter and Ann plays defense for the Belles this season. But they are more than teammates both on and off the Belles' volleyball court.
"We are best friends off the court," Ann said.
Growing up in Hamilton, Ohio, Agnes was a big influence on Ann.
Agnes began playing volleyball in fifth grade, and encouraged Ann to play during the summers at home.
"I think I was a big influence on Ann," Agnes said. "I encouraged her to work out with me during the summer, and it was just something fun we could do together."
Little sister Ann, agreed with Agnes's sentiment.
"She was definitely a big influence on me," Ann said.
Although they have both been playing since the fifth grade, this year is the first year that Agnes and Ann have had the opportunity to play together as teammates. They are both finding that there are definite advantages to playing together.
"Our parents come to more games, for one thing," Agnes said. "More importantly, I think it's just fun. Playing with someone you grew up with at the competitive level is really great."
"It's something I've always wanted to do," Ann added. "Ever since we started practicing in the yard, I've looked forward to playing together."
Both Agnes and Ann both agree that playing volleyball has strengthened their friendship.
"No matter what your experience, doing it with the people you care about brings you closer," Agnes said. "Playing volleyball has really helped us relate."
Playing together has also motivated the Bill sisters to play their best. Competitive volleyball has always been a big part of both players' lives.
During their high school years both women played for their high school team as well as for club teams in the off season. Their friendship and their sisterhood have been major influences on their playing, especially now that they play on the same team.
"Agnes really motivates me to play well," Ann said. "She makes me want to play hard and give one hundred percent"
Agnes leaves a good example of a successful volleyball career for Ann when she graduates this year. She was named first team MIAA last season, as well as an MIAA player of the week and Saint Mary's most valuable player.
According to Agnes, teamwork is a huge part of the Bills' success this season.
"I want Ann to do well and she wants me to do well," Agnes added.
"If one of us has a bad game, we both have a bad game. She knows to pick me up and I do the same."
All Sports Stories for Thursday, October 14, 1999
