Texas Tech University Athletics
Double The Trouble
March 24, 2004 | Softball
March 24, 2004
By Chelsea Thompson, Texas Tech Athletic Media Relations - Freshmen Ashley and Heather Parker came to Tech just this year from Lindale, TX. The twin sisters have both played a very crucial part in the 2004 softball season thus far with both girls seeing playing time. The sisters agree that playing softball at a Division 1 and Big 12 school like Tech has always been a dream and to do it together is a dream come true.
It was never an option to go separate ways for the two sisters, having played ball together since t-ball. Heather says that they both prefer to stay away from the trash-talking of going against each other. Competing with one another never crossed their mind. The longest the girls have spent apart was four days and the girls are close both on and off the field. Off the field, they have shared a room for 18 years and are currently roommates on campus. On the field, Heather plays shortstop and Ashley is right behind her in the outfield.
Playing together for so many years brings a lot of softball memories. The girls led their high school softball team to a pair of Texas 3A state tournament appearances. However, it is often the funny times that bring back the memories. Despite her sister's protest, Ashley goes on to tell the story about playing in the World Series at age 14. Ashley was catcher and Heather was playing shortstop when everyone got a clear picture of Heather flying over the bag after tripping.
The sisters are like any other twin siblings when it comes to smooth tricks. The two told stories about when they use to switch the phone in the middle of conversations, especially when they were talking to boys. The only down fall that could come of being a twin is not being an individual. The two have definitely proved to be individuals in the game of softball, both finding their niche on the field.
Head coach Bobby Reeves is lucky to have players who he can put in the line-up everyday and use their speed to get on base and run the bases quickly. The Parker sisters can also play defense with their strong arm and quick feet. They add to the already extensive line-up that Reeves has.
So just how long does it take a coach to tell the two apart?
"It is easier to just call one of their names and whoever turns their head is the right one. Actually, it didn't take me long. Ashley has a mole above her eye and Heather is the mother figure." Reeves commends the girls on their transition from high school to college softball. "The two are good and have made the transition very well. We will keep them around for many years."
