Liam and Kayde Keffer of San Tan Valley are 15 year old twins who share many things, including a passion for scootering, a sport rapidly growing in popularity. Yet they insist they have their differences too, from their hairstyles to their scootering style. Kayde is 'regular' while Liam is what is known as 'goofy'. Originally they followed in their dad's footsteps by pursuing track and field. However, when Covid shut down many sports, the twins looked for something they could still pursue and get out some energy.
They got into scootering partly because the skate parks were open and partly because they had an older brother who was already into action sports. Eventually, they began to take it more seriously and now they practice 2-3 hours a day working on their tricks and jumps. Their mother, Lisa, says the boys are driven to compete because they come from a long line of athletes and competitors. Astonishingly, their 90 year old grandfather still competes in the Senior Olympics in the sport of javelin.
The twins also spur one another to push the boundaries of what they can achieve. Their ambitions have taken them all the way to Italy in September to compete at the World Skate Games. They were two of just four teens nationwide selected to represent the States. They learned a lot during their first major event in Europe, including the level of competition and the mentality needed to win. Liam called it 'eye-opening' and the experience only made him want to compete more. Meanwhile, they also got the chance to see Italy's architecture and try the food too. Kayde said he was 'amazed' to see sights like the Coliseum in person.
Their life can seem rather unconventional in order to accommodate their sport. Their mom homeschools them so that they have the flexibility to travel for events. Kayde admits that this can often mean other teens find it hard to relate to them. Nevertheless, both Kayde and Liam are hoping that scootering is recognized as an Olympic sport and that, one day, they might take their scooters to the Olympics. Until then, they will be perfecting their skills, working on new tricks until the next World Skate Games in 2026.
Despite the impressive achievements and opportunities the Keffer twins have had through their sport, they have had misfortune too. Last year, their father, Steve Keffer, passed away after collapsing from a cardiac arrest. As a firefighter he had just come off a deployment fighting a wildfire when he was preparing to return to the field. Liam recalls his father as 'very loving' and always making time for them despite his hectic work schedule. Kayde said his dad always put family first and 'loved watching us', adding that their stunts would often 'blow his mind'.
Lisa has had to adjust being without her partner of 27 years. She says that they have had support from the Gary Sinise Foundation which helps military and first responders and their families by providing community, covering costs, and more. Lisa says it has helped to meet other families and honor the work of heroes. Liam and Kayde are still quite young and have already been through so much. When asked what were they most thankful for this Thanksgiving, they did not hesitate and pointed to their mom.
You can follow Liam and Kayde and their incredible journey by following them on their social media. Instagram: thekeffertwins YouTube: The Keffer Krew