Rhodes College Athletics

In the early ‘70s Rhodes developed an interest in rekindling the varsity athletics program. Under the leadership of physical education Camille Deaderick, the athletic department began advertising for a “few good women” to join various teams. Cherry Falls answered the call and she and her teammates laid the foundation for the diverse varsity athletics program offered to Rhodes women today.

Little recognition or support was provided to the women’s teams at this time. Cherry and her teammates truly participated out of their love for their sport, each other and their coach. Players routinely crammed into a van and often slept 8-10 to a room when they traveled. Jersey’s were bought for the team, but players had to sew numbers on them. None of this deterred Cherry Falls. She played three years of volleyball, badminton and tennis and one year of basketball.

Cherry was a member of the Kappa Delta sorority, volunteered in the Kinney program and served as a member of the Dorm Board and Women’s Undergraduate Board.

Since 1977 Cherry has been a teacher and coach at St. Mary’s Episcopal School. In her words Cherry states, “I am very grateful to have been at Rhodes when I was. It was a terrific experience to be a part of those early years of women’s sports. Rhodes has been and continues to be an important part of my life.” 

For her love of sports her teammates and coaches, and for her dedication and commitment to rekindling the women’s athletic spirit at her alma mater, Rhodes is honored to induct CHERRY VAREE FALLS into the Rhodes Athletic Hall of Fame this 22nd day of October, 2004.