GRCC vs. Harper College Becomes "Twin Bowl"

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WZZM) - It's something you don't see everyday.

Football fans at the game between Grand Rapids Community College and Harper College were seeing double on Saturday, Oct. 24 at Houseman Field.

Aside from GRCC's recent success on the gridiron, the other big story line was the "Twin Bowl" between GRCC President Dr. Steven Ender and Harper College President Dr. Kenneth Ender.

"I've really been ... really pleased the way people seem to be genuinely excited about the twin bowl. It's fun," said Dr. Steven Ender.

"For us it's just a big treat, quite frankly, and part of a series of life events you have as twins that you just can't really enjoy unless you are a twin. And for this community, I think something like this is special."

What's even more special is the timing of when the identical brothers became college presidents this year. Dr. Kenneth Ender became Harper College's President in July, just two months after his brother became GRCC's ninth President.

"When you're in the same profession, being presidents, (there) are meetings across the country that we both go to. So we get to enjoy our company there. The fact that we're three hours away is really great for us because we do make that drive. It's important for both of us," said Dr. Steven Ender.

Since Harper lost to the Raiders, it means Dr. Kenneth Ender is picking up the box of winning cigars.

"He ordered earlier in the week. We're trying to take care of it though," said Dr. Kenneth Ender with a big smile.

And who's picking up dinner tonight?

"I'm taking care of dinner tonight," says Dr. Steven Ender. "I'm the host this weekend. It's all on me. It started what I think will be a great tradition."

A tradition filled with lasting memories between identical twin brothers who are college presidents.

Since GRCC won the "Twin Bowl," it means the team finished the regular season unbeaten. It picked up the top-seed in the upcoming playoffs.