By Scott Van Eman, SID assistant
October 4, 2002
No, that isn't a typo on the 2002 Bluffton College cross country roster. This year's team features not one but two Borga's, senior Steve and freshman Lauren. The brother and sister combo recently posted top times for the cross country team at the Francis Marion University Invitational and have been steadily at the top for Bluffton this season.
Being athletes in the same sport at the same school is nothing new for Steve and Lauren. Both were members of the cross country team at New Philadelphia High School but were on separate male/female teams. Bluffton has been their first experience of practicing and competing together. So far, the siblings are enjoying the new experience. "Yeah, we do a lot of bonding," Lauren said of her and brother Steve.
The two being on the same team this season has allowed Steve and Lauren's parents to see both run at the same event. Senior and older brother Steve does admit to pulling rank on his sister but for the most part it falls short, "He tries to boss me around every now and then but I don't listen."
Having a brother/sister pair of athletes on the team has proved to be a pleasure for coach Derek Stanley. One of coach Stanley's main objectives this season has been to give the cross country team a family feel and having two actually family members on the team has strengthened this concept.
Both have also become key assets for the team's success this season. "I can be very honest with both of them (when evaluating their performance) which is rare," said Stanley of the Borga's. Stanley also noted a great work ethic as another quality the siblings shared.
Steve and "Little Borga", a nickname Lauren has acquired, aren't above the common sibling rivalry. When asked who is better both boast a big game. "I am better, we have an understanding," said Lauren while Steve confidently remarked, "I think I can beat her in the longer races."
Both Borga's are enjoying the 2002 cross country season. Senior Steve said, "I really like the team this year," and went on to say that there is a great atmosphere and closeness on the team this season. Both Steve and Lauren are shooting for the team to become competitive this season and get a top four finish at the conference meet scheduled for October 26th at Mt. St. Joseph.
Steve and Lauren Borga have turned what could have been an awkward situation in to a memorable one. Now all they have to do is figure out who gets to open their presents first at Christmas.