Loyola-Chicago to Honor Sister Jean with Jersey Patch
Published: Oct 31, 2025, 12:00 AM ET
The Loyola-Chicago Ramblers men’s basketball team will carry a poignant tribute with them throughout their 2025-2026 season. Players will proudly wear a commemorative patch on their jerseys, honoring the life and legacy of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the team’s beloved chaplain, who died on October 9th at the remarkable age of 106.
A Legacy of Faith and Support
The announcement, made Tuesday by the University, was accompanied by a heartfelt social media message stating, “Our biggest fan will be with us all season long.” This sentiment reflects the profound impact Sister jean had on the team, the university, and the wider basketball community.
Sister Jean’s journey with the Ramblers began in 1991 when she joined the Loyola-Chicago staff. She initially served as an academic advisor before transitioning to the role of team chaplain three years later. Even as health challenges arose, prompting her to step down from active duties in August, her spirit and dedication remained a constant source of inspiration.
From Local Icon to National Treasure
Sister Jean rose to national prominence during the Ramblers’ improbable run to the Final Four in the 2018 NCAA Tournament. Her presence, offering prayers for both teams before each game and offering encouragement to the players, became a defining image of that Cinderella story. The team, seeded 11th, captivated the nation with their resilience and teamwork, ultimately falling short against Michigan in the national semifinals.
Did You Know? Sister Jean was born Dolores Bertha Schmidt on August 21, 1919, and took the name Sister Jean Dolores in 1937. her life spanned over a century of history, witnessing notable cultural and societal changes.
Her unwavering support and positive energy were not merely symbolic; players consistently spoke of her as a source of strength and guidance.
upcoming Season and Enduring Impact
The Ramblers will begin their season Monday with a home game against Cleveland State, carrying Sister Jean’s memory with them onto the court. This gesture serves as a powerful reminder of her enduring influence on the program and the importance of faith, community, and sportsmanship.
| Key Dates | Event |
|---|---|
| October 9, 2025 | Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt passes away at age 106. |
| October 29, 2025 | Loyola-Chicago announces jersey patch tribute. |
| November 1, 2025 | Loyola-Chicago opens season against Cleveland State. |
the Role of Chaplains in College Athletics
The role of a chaplain in college sports is evolving, but fundamentally remains centered on providing spiritual guidance, emotional support, and ethical leadership to athletes, coaches, and staff. They often facilitate team-building activities, offer counseling services, and lead prayer sessions. Chaplains can be notably vital during times of stress, competition, or personal difficulty. According to a 2024 study by the NCAA, over 60% of Division I institutions now have a dedicated team chaplain or access to spiritual support services.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sister Jean
- Who was Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt? Sister Jean was the longtime chaplain and a beloved figure associated with the Loyola-Chicago Ramblers men’s basketball team, known for her unwavering support and faith.
- How did Sister Jean impact the Loyola-Chicago basketball team? She served as an academic advisor and chaplain, providing spiritual guidance, encouragement, and a comforting presence to the players and staff.
- What happened during the 2018 NCAA Tournament? Sister Jean gained national attention during Loyola-Chicago’s improbable Final Four run,where she prayed for both teams before each game.
- How is Loyola-Chicago honoring Sister Jean’s memory? The team will wear a commemorative jersey patch throughout the 2025-2026 season in her honor.
- When did Sister Jean pass away? Sister Jean passed away on October 9, 2025, at the age of 106.
What are your fondest memories of Sister Jean and the 2018 Loyola-Chicago team? How important is a figure like Sister Jean to a college basketball program?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
