Twins’ approach on court couldn’t be less identical

Though they have the same genetic makeup, the Compton twins couldn’t be any more different.

Trent is reserved, while his brother Tanner is loud and bubbly.

Both stand 6 feet 2 inches and share all of the same features. The only not-so-subtle difference is one recently cut a mohawk into his hair to stand out (take a guess which one).

But in spite of their contrasting personalities, these brothers have teamed on the volleyball court this season to help Legacy to its best start in school history.

At 19-3 overall and 7-0 in the Southwest League, the Longhorns are hoping to win their first league championship since the school opened in 2006. Tanner and Trent Compton have been the catalysts along the way.

“They’re big players for us,” second-year Legacy coach Ray Lewis said. “It’s their second year on varsity, and they were leaders for us last year. They’re a big part of what we do here at Legacy.

“They’re twin brothers, but they’re polar opposites, which actually works really well for us. Both are leaders in their own respect. Tanner tends to be more vocal and outspoken. He tells the team ‘Let’s go’ and really gets on them, where Trent leads by play and example. He constantly wants to improve, and he’s never satisfied with his performance, which makes everyone else hungry.”

Tanner Compton feeds off that play just as much as his other teammates do. In fact, he might be his “older” brother’s biggest fan.

“Every time he does something better, he’s like, ‘It’s because I’m the older brother,’ ” said Tanner Compton, who is one minute younger. “I love playing with (Trent). It brings me a level of confidence. I know that I have him by my side if I’m not doing my best.”

Trent Compton mostly agreed.

“At times (I enjoy it),” he said jokingly. “But sometimes he gets on my nerves.”

The senior outside hitters, who began playing the sport as freshmen, have posed a deadly combination for opposing defenses all season long.

“They’re a huge part of our success,” Lewis said. “When I came here, I was lucky to inherit the players I did. Tanner, Trent and our setter Braden (Liu) have been key for what the program is. They’ve really just helped establish a standard of what Legacy volleyball is now.”

Last season, the Longhorns advanced to the Sunset Region semifinals before being knocked off by Palo Verde.

They’re now looking to build on that success. Their only losses this season were in the La Jolla (Calif.) Invitational in March. Two of the losses came to California teams, with the other to Arbor View.

Every other local team has fallen, including defending state champion Coronado and Palo Verde in a redemption match.

The success doesn’t come as a surprise to those who have been a part of the program.

“Our goal has been state since day one,” Lewis said. “We’re confident and excited, and we look to be there.”

Trent Compton said: “We have a lot of returners (from last season), so we’re just hoping to put up a state championship.”

Contact reporter Ashton Ferguson at aferguson@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0430.