By Ashley Hargrove
Haley and Hollye Keenum have been almost inseparable since birth.
Whether it was an athletic event or just around town, the two were always together.
During their days at Tanner High School, both were members of the Rattlers’ volleyball and softball teams. Hollye was also a member of the girls’ basketball team. But as their days in Tanner uniforms came to a close, they had to decide where to attend school.
Haley received an offer to play softball at Calhoun the following season, while Hollye was offered an academic scholarship to Birmingham Southern with a chance to play on the Lady Panther’s basketball team. Because of her love for basketball, Hollye decided to accept the scholarship to Birmingham Southern, meaning for the first time since Haley took a week -long trip to Girls State in the summer of 2006, the two were going to be separated. However, as time drew closer to graduation, Hollye changed her mind about where she would attend college, tempted by the idea of being able to play softball with her sister two more years.
“At first, I thought it would be easy,” Hollye said. “But reality sank in as time got closer, and knowing I had the chance to play ball with Haley two more years was something I couldn’t pass up.”
Haley said she was happy when she learned the news that she was going to be playing ball with Hollye again, but she said she tried not to influence her twin’s decision.
“I wanted her to do what she wanted,” Haley said. “Once I found out, I was happy we were going to get to play together again.”
The two are now in their final season together at Calhoun, and while they’re not planning to major in the same field, they are planning on continuing their education at Athens State together.
Haley plans to get a degree in accounting and business, while Hollye plans to major in physical therapy.
“It’s special anytime you get to play with your sister,” Hollye said. “But knowing that I got to play two more years with her has made it even more special.”
