Twin Sisters Headed to Ohio to Play Division I Volleyball

by Lorrie Ham

Although their decision was made a year ago, twin sisters Brenna and Callie Mack, seniors at Mound Westonka High School, made their commitment official on Nov. 14 when they signed letters of intent to play volleyball next fall for the University of Akron, Ohio.

In presenting their signing pens in front of family, Westonka staff and friends, Activities Director Dion Koltes said the girls have reached the “ultimate pinnacle” by playing Division I college athletics.

“These girls are great student athletes and are so well-grounded,” said Koltes. “I couldn’t be prouder.”

The girls have been leaders on their MWHS high school team since making the varsity squad as eighth-graders. Both girls set new school records on the court during their careers. Callie had 923 set assists this year and 2,822 in her high school career. She also set records with 65 serve aces this year and a career total of 251. Brenna became the first Westonka volleyball player in history to record her 1,000th career kill—and that was last year. She ended her high school career with a total of 1,677 kills.

"These two unique young women have assisted me in taking this program to another level. They have a passion for the game, knowledge beyond their years and a drive like none other,” said volleyball coach Katie Jo O’Gara. “Both Brenna and Callie have brought diverse aspects to our game. They also are both willing to learn and teach others which is a very coachable quality.”

The Mack sisters began playing volleyball together when they were 11 years old, following a trip to Jamaica where they discovered beach volleyball. Upon returning home, they joined the M1 (Minnesota 1) club team and still play year-round volleyball for the club.

One of the first volleyball camps they attended as youngsters was run by coach O’Gara.

“I remember the day they walked into my youth camp and touched a volleyball for the first time—they have been hooked ever since,” said O’Gara.

Brenna and Callie have also found success off the court, placing first together in international DECA competition last year. They are AP Scholars and members of NHS and Link Crew. Both girls also carry a 4.0 GPA.

Each of the girls plan to study marketing in college with possible minors in athletics for Brenna and communications for Callie.

Brenna and Callie are the daughters of proud parents Craig and Linda Mack of Minnetrista.

“I look forward to road trips to Akron and watching them flourish at the collegiate level,” said O’Gara.  “I have every confidence in them."