Many studies have shown that twin telepathy is a myth. Although twins aren’t telepathic, they may have a lot in common. And for the Russ twins, Issac and Chloe, that commonality is a love for their sports. At WJ, the sophomore twins both play goalie on their respective varsity teams. Isaac finds himself in goal as the netminder for the ice hockey team whereas Chloe leads a strong defensive line as the goalkeeper for the girls’ soccer team.
Having a twin is an extraordinary experience because it offers not only a supporter, but a competitor as well. The competition between the Russ twins benefits them both, elevating their drive and determination.
“I think our competitiveness pushes us to work harder,” Isaac Russ said. One of us always has to be the better twin.”
Despite the competition in the Russ household, the twins push one another to their furthest potential.
“Ever since we were kids we pushed each other a lot,” Chloe Russ said. “As we’ve grown up, we’ve been able to push each other more and more every day.”
The lighthearted competition to outperform one another can serve as a tool for motivation. Living with another individual who shares the same passion for sports, especially a specific position, allows for learning opportunities.
“Hockey is very fast paced,” Chloe Russ said. “Isaac’s reaction time and his movement in goal is great. It pushes me to match his energy on the soccer field and learn from him.”
Chloe and Isaac train specifically for their respective sports, but they are also there to improve one another’s skills. The twins work together to continue improving their game and thriving in their sports.
“Even though we are both goalies, hockey and soccer are very different sports,” Isaac Russ said. “However, the same set of skills are used in both sports to become a good goalie, such as reaction time, catching and in-game situations.”
Both being freshmen on varsity last year, Chloe and Isaac weaved their way to starting spots this year. With three sports seasons still ahead of them, the possibilities are endless for the Russ twins.
“It’s great to both find ourselves in starting positions,” Chloe Russ said. “We have both worked hard to get where we are. It feels great to see both of us succeeding in our sport.”
Jennifer Barmon, the twins’ mother, is essential to their success. Not only does she drive the twins back and forth to games and practices, but she also fuels the drive that inspires the twins to reach their full potential.
“Chloe and Isaac have always been super competitive with each other which I think has pushed them to work hard at being the best goalies they can be for their teams, themselves, and to prove it to each other,” Barmon said.
While having a twin who plays the same position can add pressure to perform better, Chloe and Isaac Russ have a forever supporter in each other, both on and off the field.
