Nicole with her Rhodes College softball teammates.

I always knew I wanted to join a sorority. I wanted to feel that warmth of sisterhood everyone talks about. I wanted to take part in philanthropic events and have the chance to make someone else’s day better. However, I never thought I would be given that opportunity.

For as long as I can remember, softball has been a part of my everyday life. Whether it was hitting a ball inside my house at age three or traveling across the country playing in tournaments, softball was always there. Being a collegiate athlete was a dream of mine, and I was willing to do whatever it took, even if it meant not being able to join a sorority.

When recruitment came in the spring of 2019, I decided to participate. I wanted to see if being a part of both an athletic community and a sorority was even possible. On the very first day, the first Open House party I went to was Kappa Delta’s. Walking into the house, I had no idea what to expect. I was nervous and just hoping to find a place I would be able to call home.

Kappa Delta Bid Day at Rhodes College.

Being a first-generation college student, I didn’t have parents or grandparents to tell me what to expect from Greek life. However, as soon as I stepped foot into Kappa Delta, the anxiety and worry disappeared. I instantly felt so welcomed and genuinely cared about. Each KD I talked to was intrigued with everything I had to say and truly wanted to hear more about me being a member of the softball team. I had assumed the topic of me being an athlete would be quickly glazed over, but I was wrong. People asked me what position I played, when games were, where we traveled for games and many other questions.

Now, I am a fully initiated member of Kappa Delta! The love and support I have received has been such a blessing. I have sisters texting me before every game wishing my team and me good luck. Even in 30-degree weather, I see sisters sitting on our old school bleachers cheering for us. These women have brought so much light and positivity into my life. They have taught me to be confident in myself whether I am in the Kappa Delta house or on the softball diamond. I am inspired by the joy my Kappa Delta sisters bring to any situation, and I am eternally grateful.

Nicole and her Kappa Delta sisters.

So, was it possible for me to be a member of a collegiate sports team and a sorority? Yes! My dreams of playing softball and being a member of a sisterhood came true. If it wasn’t for the support of Kappa Delta and the compassion these women show me, whatever the circumstances may be, who knows what would have happened. I am so blessed to have sisters cheering me on, and I am so excited to have sisters who I can cheer for.

Nicole Gruel
opens in a new windowAlpha Delta-Rhodes College

Discover more about the Kappa Delta experience opens in a new windowhere.