For many athletes, competing at the collegiate level in one sport is demanding enough. For this duo at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, balancing two sports while sharing the journey side by side has become their defining edge. Their story is rooted in competition, strengthened by trust, and elevated by a shared standard that continues to push both to new heights.

Meet Kali Olson and her younger sister Ayla Olson.

Growing up in a household where sports were central to everyday life, their foundation was built early. With a mother coaching volleyball and older brothers immersed in basketball, the environment naturally fostered both passion and discipline.

"We were three-sport athletes in high school. We played volleyball, basketball, and softball together, and with that our Mom was our volleyball coach and our Dad was really involved with summer workouts with us and our brothers played basketball," Kali Olson said.

That early exposure translated into more than just participation, it created a mindset centered on growth, leadership, and long-term goals. Competing in multiple sports didn't divide their focus; it sharpened it.

"We were from a very sports-oriented family, so sports were always a big part of growing up. Our mom was our head volleyball coach, so we were always in the gym with her. We also have two older brothers who played basketball, so we followed them from gym to gym. It led us to be determined to play at the next level. It also shaped us into leaders on the court and in the community, inspiring younger kids and showing them that playing at the next level is possible," said Kali.

That internal drive was amplified by something unique, the constant presence of each other. Whether in practice or competition, their relationship became a built-in motivator.

"We definitely pushed each other growing up. We were very competitive, whether it was playing one-on-one, pig, or even setting each other up in volleyball," Ayla Olson said.

Yet their dynamic extends beyond competition. What separates them is the ability to balance intensity with unwavering support, a duality that defines their partnership.

"There are two sides to it. Competitively, we push each other to be the best we can be. But we're also supportive. I want her to succeed, and she wants me to succeed, no matter what we're doing," she said.

As they transitioned from high school to the collegiate level, that foundation didn't shift, it scaled. The expectations grew, but so did their ability to meet them together.

"It hasn't really changed. We still push each other and hold each other to the standard we know we can play at," Kali said.

Their journey to Saint Mary's wasn't identical, but it ultimately aligned. Kali entered as a single-sport recruit before rediscovering a second passion, while the other pursued the rare opportunity to compete in both from the outset.

"I was originally recruited to play volleyball. After the season, I realized I wasn't ready to give up basketball. I went to the coach, got the opportunity to walk on, and I just kept going from there," Kali said

"I was recruited for both volleyball and basketball. I wanted to play both because it's not common, and seeing that it was possible really inspired me," Ayla said

What solidified their decision wasn't just athletics, it was the environment. From the moment they stepped on campus, the sense of belonging stood out.

"The sense of community you feel right when you step on campus is huge. Whether it was people in the cafeteria or administration, you felt welcomed immediately," Kali said.

That connection extended into their teams, where support systems made the transition away from home far more manageable.

"The team is so supportive. It feels like you have sisters with you. Moving away from home can be scary, but you have that group there," Ayla said.

At the Division III level, their experience highlights a common misconception, one that often undervalues both the competition and the opportunity.

"People think the competition level isn't as high, but DIII gives you the opportunity to play both sports. You get two teams, a strong sense of community, and a more personalized experience from coaches," Kali said.

That support extends beyond teams and into the broader campus community, reinforcing the value of a smaller school environment.

"You walk on campus and people say good luck or congratulate you on a big win. That support is a great part of being at a smaller school," Ayla said.

Still, balancing two collegiate sports comes with its challenges, particularly the physical and mental transition between seasons.

"The biggest challenge is the overlap. You finish volleyball and immediately jump into basketball. We had one day between seasons before starting practice," Kali said. 

Managing that intensity requires more than just discipline, it demands a strong support network.

"The support from teammates, coaches, and having each other helps a lot. Even when you feel behind, people are there to help you get back on track," Kali said.

When they step onto the court together, that preparation translates into something deeper than chemistry, it's instinct.

"It's really special. We've built trust our whole lives, and it's something we dreamed of as kids. Being in that moment and realizing how far we've come means a lot," Kali said. 

That lifelong connection creates subtle advantages that others may not fully understand.

"We have similar styles of play, so we know where each other will be on the court. That connection is stronger because we've played together for so long," Ayla said. 

It also allows for a level of honesty that strengthens performance.

"There's some tough love. We can say things to each other because we know it comes from wanting the best for each other," Kali said. 

Individually, both have had to evolve, adapting roles, refining skill sets, and embracing new responsibilities at the collegiate level.

"I had to adjust from being an all-around player to focusing on one position and giving 100 percent in shorter moments. My leadership and communication have also improved," Kali said.

"I had to learn my role and develop the right mentality, especially in basketball. Showing up every day, paying attention to details, and giving full effort is critical," Kali said. 

That growth has translated into tangible success, with accomplishments that reflect both their individual work and collective impact.

"I'm proud of earning all-conference honors in both volleyball and basketball. It's not something you see often, and it reflects the work I've put in," Kali said.

"Getting Rookie of the Year was very rewarding. It showed that what I bring to the team is making an impact," Ayla said. 

Their shared experiences have also included defining moments,games that stand out as milestones in their journey.

"One of the most memorable volleyball matches was beating Bethel in five sets at home. In basketball, games like handling and our home game against Concordia stand out," Kali said. 

Beyond individual highlights, their teams' culture has played a central role in sustaining success across both sports.

"The sense of support is huge. The basketball team comes to volleyball games, and the volleyball team supports basketball. That makes it easier to play both just knowing there is continuous support." Ayla said. 

Looking ahead, their goals remain aligned, not just in ambition, but in execution.

"A MIAC championship in basketball is a major goal, along with returning to the NCAA tournament and going further. For volleyball, making postseason play would be huge," Kali said. 

Ultimately, their legacy won't just be measured in wins or awards, but in the transformation they helped create.

"I want to be remembered as someone who helped turn things around. We came from seasons without conference wins, so being part of that change and improving the culture is important." Kali said

That legacy also carries a message for those who follow.

"You can play back-to-back sports. It is doable," Ayla mentioned.

And perhaps most simply, it comes down to the standard they've upheld from the beginning.

"Being a good teammate, a leader, and pushing younger generations to reach their goals, that's how I want to be remembered." Ayla said