Twin telepathy is real and occurs on and off the volleyball court. Bethany Bellfi, a junior nursing major, and Brianna Bellfi, a junior in biological sciences, are the volleyball team’s dynamic duo. Their bond is evident in their coordinated plays and effortless communication, making them formidable on the court.
INDIVIDUALITY IN UNITY
Although they share the same initials, B.B., and the same DNA, sisters Bethany Bellfi and Brianna Bellfi are unique individuals.
Brianna Bellfi considers herself a bold and direct personality, as opposed to Bethany Bellfi, whom she describes as an energizer.
“Our individual strengths and weaknesses help us be separated,” Brianna Bellfi stated.
They complement each other, showcasing how individuality can thrive even within the closest relationships.
INSPIRED BY FAMILY
The Bellfi twins felt drawn to volleyball due to their sister, Danielle, who is four years older than them. When they were younger, they would watch her practices and games and felt inspired to pursue the sport as well.
“Watching [Danielle] play volleyball when I was eight, she’s the coolest person, so I want to be like her and play too,” Brianna Bellfi said.
FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME
The twins loved how old-school Biola was — a very traditional, beautiful campus. The coaches and the team were what sold them, and it has snowballed ever since.
“The atmosphere was different from other schools I had visited. The people are so loving, and having a space to discuss Christianity openly is cool,” Bethany Bellfi stated.
The twins view their relationship as a built-in best friend, and Biola has only fostered their connection.
“To have [Bethany] by my side throughout this whole thing has been the best experience possible. She’s been with me through everything,” Brianna Bellfi said.
Attending college sports with your best friend by your side is the adventure of a lifetime.
“You’re never alone, and having somebody who understands you fully and, […] their presence alone is just so nice to be around,” Bethany Bellfi stated.
JOURNEY TO THE PAST
When the twins attended Biola’s volleyball camp, coaches usually didn’t recruit for the same position for one class. Brianna Bellfi and Bethany Bellfi play the same position as defensive specialists, yet they have still secured a spot on the team.
The twins always thought about the possibility of going to different schools and how it might be good for them, but God had a plan for them to be together.
“Playing with Brianna is such a blessing because we didn’t know we could go to college together,” said Bethany Bellfi. “We are in the same position with similar stats. We didn’t think anybody would ever want to recruit two of the same position. Biola allowing us to play together has meant the world to us.”
Brianna Bellfi spoke about how the assistant coach, Grace Teague, really liked her skill set, and the head coach, Aaron Seltzer, liked Bethany Bellfi’s, but the two decided they could not take one twin over the other.
“[Seltzer] was like, ‘We have to have you together. […] I can’t take one over the other. We have to have both of you even though you’re the same position,’” Brianna Bellfi stated.
No one can deny the twin’s chemistry on the court.
“We’re like a power duo in the back row, and it’s so much fun to play with each other,” Bethany Bellfi said. “We play the strongest when we’re together.”
TWIN FLAMES
The twins depend on each other to push each other to their highest potential, on and off the court. Tough love is necessary when trying to excel and reach success. Recognizing each other’s strengths, weaknesses and limits provides the support and motivation needed to elevate their performance. They believe they push each other to be the best version and player.
“With such a close relationship, understanding each other, and knowing our motives, it’s easy to support one another because you have so much trust in that person,” said Brianna Bellfi.
Together, they create an environment where they can challenge each other, celebrate achievements, and learn from setbacks, making their bond a crucial part of their journey.
As they continue to grow and challenge each other, their story is an impactful reminder of how love, trust, and collaboration can lead to extraordinary achievements. The Bellfi twins are not just teammates but a true force to be reckoned with, ready to conquer whatever challenges come their way.
