Written by Tyler Kuehl
 
Within the past decade, the DU Pep Band has made their presence at many sporting events around the campus of Davenport University. They have been seen most frequently at the Student Center at men's and women's basketball games.
 
One of the younger faces on this year's squad is Sonja Groters, who is in her second year at DU.
 
"Sunny", as she is better known as, started playing the flute in the sixth grade, which led to her performing four years of marching band as a member of the color guard for nearby Sparta High School. In her senior year, Groters was a part of the first group to qualify for the MCBA State Finals in Detroit. Also while at Sparta, Groters also performed two years of wind ensemble, and another three in concert band.
 
What made DU the attractive destination for Sunny was not just because it was close to home and that they have an excellent Women's Rugby program (which Groters excelled at in her high school career), but also because they offered articulation credits.
 
"On top of the scholarships I was getting," Groters stated. "I was able to transfer in with 40 credits. The fact that I was able to cut out that much schooling has made it so I am actually able to graduate next spring."
 
When Sunny first arrived at Davenport, she took her freshman year off from music. Instead keeping her focus in the classroom as well as the turf. However, Groters was still interested in music. When Director Jonathan Schnicke asked if she wanted to come on board in her sophomore year, Sunny happily obliged.
 
"When this year rolled around, I was like 'I really miss band'. So, I signed up, and have enjoyed doing band stuff again."
 
Sunny also mentioned how nice it is to have the balance between playing rugby and being a member of the Pep Band.
 
"I like being part of a [musical] team. Being in a different crowd, it was nice to have a change of pace, and be with a different group of people all the time."