Although 60 feet typically separates them on the diamond, sisters and Coronado softballers Lucy and Sophie Kenny were born just 20 minutes apart.
Catcher Lucy and third baseman Sophie have played softball together since they were 3, one of the few constants in what both describe as an unpredictable and ever changing life.
Their father, Erik Kenny, has been in the U.S. Navy for most of their lives, which has meant constant relocating for the Kenny family as they adjust to Erik’s different deployments and detachments.
Sophie Kenny explained this situation has made it difficult to build important relationships at times, but it is not something she regrets.
Moving challenges
“I think having a military background and having to move around a lot because of my dad’s job in the Navy has made it hard to be competitive in a sport and build those connections with teammates and coaches,” she said. “A lot of my teammates in the different places we have lived have grown up in the same place their whole lives and played together since they were little kids.”
Sophie added that although there are downsides to moving often, the bond it has facilitated between herself and her sister has made it worthwhile.
I am lucky to always have this built-in best friend and throwing partner wherever I go.”
-Sophie Kenny on moving and her sister.
“I am also grateful for having to move around a lot because it has given me life lessons that I will use forever,” she said. “Moving around a lot has made me grow a strong connection with my twin sister and little sister throughout the years because, in a new town and school, you don’t have anyone but your family. I am lucky to always have this built-in best friend and throwing partner wherever I go.”
Lucy Kenny echoed the sentiments expressed by her “little” twin sister, explaining that the Kennys have moved four times in her lifetime, something that she also credits with shaping her as a person.
“She is my partner for everything: throwing, batting and life.”
-Lucy Kenny on her sister.
“It’s hard going to new schools and being scared to be the new kid, but knowing she will be right next to me every step of the way makes it easier,” Lucy said. “She is my partner for everything: throwing, batting, and life.”
Fiery competitors
Coronado softball Coach Tom Dull says that though it is evident that these two are close, they also are fiery competitors with each other on the field.
“I have coached both sisters and twins before but have never seen two sisters that were closer and enjoyed being around each other more.”
-Softball Coach Tom Dull on the Kenny twins.
“They often try to outdo the other’s performance. Just the other day they asked me who was faster. I always pick the one who didn’t ask the question,” he said. “They are also super supportive and terrific teammates. I have coached both sisters and twins before but have never seen two sisters that were closer and enjoyed being around each other more.”
Dull provided insight into how this dynamic duo helps the Islanders compete, explaining that Lucy’s value is typically found at the plate, while Sophie’s positional versatility and defensive ability is what makes her so important to the team.
Dull added that Sophie is working on getting back into pitching for league play, and that the team is eager to get her back into the rotation.
