The Bro Code: Identical twins share a lot of DNA
Common DNA drives healthy competition in academics, athletics
Lexie Kennedy
You may see twins all around, but it’s not every day you see twins on the same college football team.
They’re both biology majors, and they’re both aiming to be doctors. Meet the Delbrune twins.
Minnesota State University Moorhead junior football players Malique and Devante Delbrune have always been close to one another, pushed each other to be the best and even live together off campus.
In high school, Malique went out for track and, of course, Devante did, too. Although they were the slowest, they were competitive – especially with each other – and so they pushed each other to run faster.
Since grade school they’ve played chess, been in track, basketball and football together. From competition grew an incredible bond between brothers. From the time they were young it’s always been one of their goals to continue playing football with each other, and they’ve achieved that goal.
Growing up in Moorhead, they decided to continue their educations in their hometown. “We’re home-grown boys,” said the twins. Staying near home was an important part in their decision.
They have always been heavily supported by their parents. Their dad, Frantz, always gave them pointers and ran drills with them.
When they were younger, they weren’t allowed to go to practice unless their homework was done. They credit their academic success to their parents for holding them accountable. Throughout their years at MSUM, they have received NSIC All-Academic Team accolades as well as making it on the dean’s list for the past few years.
Their competitiveness continues off the field, as well. Originally, Devante didn’t want to be a doctor, but Malique convinced him to pursue the profession and now they’re in the same major. They will be taking their Medical College Admission Test, or MCAT, in the spring. The results will help them decide which medical schools they will apply to.
Whether it came to wrestling around the house with each other or competing on the track, they’ve always found a way to chirp at each other. Now that they’re in college, they’ve pushed each other more than ever and lean on each other all the time.
Not only are they successful in the classroom, but throughout their three years at MSUM they’ve been successful on the field, bringing a ton of energy and light to the team.
“It’s fun to play with the Delbrunes,” said MSUM football teammate Ethan Gerbig. “They always bring a positive and enthusiastic vibe to practice and games.”
For now, you can catch Malique and Devante in the library studying away or on the field preparing for the rest of the football season.