Sibling rivalries can get ugly.

Yet, there are the rare sibling rivalries that can bring out the best in people.

That’s the type of relationship that exists between NIU track and field sisters Darren and Jenner Sio.

“I think it’s a great motivation teacher,” said track head coach Connie Teaberry. “Especially for that younger sister; seeing that older sister take that reign and lead that younger sister as a role model [is great].”

Jenner, who competes in jump events, is the older sister between the two. Currently a junior, Jenner has enjoyed having the company of her younger sister.

“We’ve always been really close,” Jenner said. “I’m glad that she’s here to support me, and that I can help her in the same way.”

Growing up, the Sio sisters were heavily involved in playing sports. From figure skating to basketball, they shared a common interest in competing athletically.

As Jenner grew older, she started to take a liking to track and field. It didn’t take long for Darren to follow her older sister’s footsteps.

“For me, track was something that I was kind of a standout in,” Jenner said. “So its always been my best sport. We both love it too. It wasn’t like our parents forced us to be in it.”

With Jenner enrolled and competing at NIU, it seemed like a perfect fit for Darren to join her.

Going to school with Jenner would alleviate some of the homesickness for Darren, a freshman.

Darren’s decision to join Jenner allowed for her to gain friends quickly, while keeping her involved and disciplined both on and off the track. To make things even smoother, Darren knew some of her would-be teammates through Jenner before she joined the team this season.

“It was nice just the idea of knowing people before [joining] the team,” Darren said.

Darren made it known to Teaberry that she wanted join her sister and become of the NIU family, so it didn’t take much convincing or recruiting to land her as a Huskie.

“The transition for her was a little bit easier since she knew the ins and outs of the program, and that was something she wanted to be a part of,” Teaberry said.