We’ve all heard of heroes like Spiderman, Black Panther, Wonder Woman, etc. But what about the ones who don’t wear capes? The ones who make sacrifices in our communities every day so that we can not only dream a dream but see it?
Once a great softball player at Cousins Middle School and former Newton Rams standout, Kyla Stroud is nothing short of a Hometown Hero.
Not only is she just a gritty player, but she’s become an inspiration to girls growing up wanting to play softball and compete on the collegiate level.
Now, with a pair of new Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deals to her credit, Stroud can also be called a bonafide trendsetter as perhaps the first Newton County athlete, especially in women’s sports, to ink a NIL contract.
She committed to Auburn in the seventh grade, which, if you know anything about softball, is a feat typically reserved for the most elite young players. Once she finished high school, she was ranked as the No. 12 overall recruit in the nation by Extra Inning Softball while earning all-region and all-county accolades three times. She was also a two-time USA All-American on the club scene and led Georgia Impact to a fourth-place finish at the 2018 PGF Tourney.
Our Nytravious Smith had a chance to catch up with Stroud to chat with her, specifically about her NIL deals, her time at Auburn and how she’s using it all to create lasting impact.
Smith: Could you please describe your softball journey and the kind of NIL deal you secured, and just what that means to you?
Stroud: “The business I signed with is On to Victory. It’s an NIL brand that bases with Auburn athletes. It came about by me just being active within Auburn athletics. We will sign lots of autographs, hand out flyers and stuff like that. The other one I signed with is Champions Locker Room, and it deals with all athletes of every sport. They help promote your name by selling shirts, water bottles, pillow cases, anything, really.
“As far as playing softball at Auburn, it has been an amazing experience. We’re like a family, and everyone has the best intentions for each other. I’ve seen a lot of growth in myself and my teammates in a short period, which is amazing. I recently secured my first NIL deal, and it was special to me because I never expected anyone to be interested in representing me. I feel truly blessed to be part of this journey.”
Smith: How do you believe this NIL partnership will benefit both you and the brand?
Stroud: “I believe that this partnership will greatly benefit me by helping me to increase my visibility and gain support from people. On the other hand, this brand will also benefit as people from my hometown – including my friends and family – will now be supporting it. This partnership will connect my hometown of Covington with Auburn University.”
Smith: Have you had a smooth transition from high school to college?
Stroud: “I had no trouble adapting to the expectations of college life when I transitioned from high school. However, picking up softball terminology quickly was a challenge that I was determined to overcome. Despite feeling like I had to relearn the game at a faster pace, I persevered and got through the first few months. I’m proud of myself for pushing through the challenge and continuing to succeed in college.”
Smith: What qualities does Kyla Stroud bring to Auburn Softball as both a person and player?
Stroud: “I inspire others to be kind-hearted and radiate positivity. I love to connect with people and bring joy to their lives. On the softball field, I’m selfless, hardworking, and always trying to set an example for my teammates. I believe that putting the team first can lead to success and encourage others to do the same.”
Smith: How would you define your major goals for your college journey?
Stroud: “My goals for this year are to earn the title of Freshman of the Week, hit a few home runs, get plenty of RBIs, and above all, support my team in any way possible. As for my team’s goals, we aim to win the SEC tournament, triumph in regionals, make it to the Women’s College World Series, and bring home the championship trophy.”
Smith: What does after softball look like for you, or is this a lifetime type of ordeal?
Stroud: “I have a passion for softball and would love to pursue a career as a professional softball player. However, I am aware that it may not be possible to continue in this sport forever. Therefore, after I retire from softball, I aspire to become a doctor in the field of psychology, with a focus on either clinical or sports psychology. This way, I can continue to be involved with softball to some extent while also pursuing my passion for helping others through psychology.”
Smith: How did Newton County impact your softball journey?
Stroud: “Newton County had a significant impact on my softball journey. Almost everyone in this area was a huge fan of mine and supported me in everything I did, whether it was rec ball or travel ball. People always had my back, pushed me to be greater, and cheered me on every time I stepped on the field.”
Smith: What advice would you give to girls who aspire to be like you one day?
Stroud: “Give your best and never settle for less. Regret is not giving your all. Get better every day and never take the sport for granted. Cherish the little things like practices and time spent with your family. Give your all and appreciate the little things.”
Smith: How can readers get in touch with you to offer support after reading this?
Stroud: “I am always available on Instagram or Twitter. These are the quickest ways to get in touch with me because when I am not playing softball, I am usually active on these social media platforms. I am always open to having conversations or connecting with new people, so feel free to reach out to me anytime. You can find me on Instagram @Kyylaa.xo and on Twitter at @KylaStroud.”
