When you think of Loyola University Chicago’s men’s basketball, it’s never just the players or the coaches, but Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, too. Long before Sister Jean became a national icon, she was a treasured presence at Loyola University and throughout Chicago. Always courtside in her maroon and gold scarf, her radiant smile and pregame prayers became a beloved tradition. Sadly, on October 9, the world lost this iconic figure at the age of 106.

Starting her journey at the university in 1991, she soon became the men’s basketball team’s academic adviser and official chaplain. For decades, she guided, counseled, and inspired students and staff alike, leaving a mark that extended far beyond the basketball court, right up until her retirement last month. As expected, Loyola University Chicago will honor Sister Jean this season by wearing a commemorative patch on their jerseys, according to Matt Norlander of CBS Sports.

Sister Jean was always the Ramblers’ most devoted supporter, but her moment in the spotlight came in 2018 when Loyola made its Cinderella run to the Final Four. Instantly, she became a national icon, celebrated for her unshakable bond with the team. At 98, she was there every step of the way, praying for the Ramblers and even their opponents, all while inspiring her team to play hard, play smart, and play together.

Even amid pandemic restrictions in 2021, Sister Jean made the journey to Indianapolis, fully vaccinated and cleared to travel, to support Loyola Chicago when they qualified for the NCAA tournament in 2021. “Sports are very important because they help develop life skills,” she said. “And during those life skills, you’re also talking about faith and purpose.” Also, before the Ramblers’ second-round matchup against top-seeded Illinois, she offered a prayer and some on-court advice:

“We have a great opportunity to convert rebounds, as this team makes about 50% of layups and 30% of its 3 [pointers]. Our defense can take care of that.” Her insight proved priceless as Loyola pulled off the upset and advanced to the Sweet 16. A perfect example of how deeply she lived and breathed every moment of the game.

One of Sister Jean’s most remarkable qualities was her unwavering presence and compassion. She always showed up for people, in both victories and defeats, a sentiment echoed by former Loyola athletic director John Planek and ex-men’s basketball head coach Jim Whitesell.

The qualities that set Sister Jean apart

According to the former athletic director, Sister Jean’s office sat right by the shuttle bus stop connecting Loyola’s campuses. She greeted every student with a warm smile and kept her door open at all times. Anyone could walk in, be heard, and find comfort in her presence.

“Sister Jean knew all the kids’ names,” Planek said. “She wasn’t just a person that was interacting with our athletic department, it was all students. I will always remember how she consistently showed up for people.” That’s not all, though!

After every game, win or lose, Loyola’s coaches and players would get an email from Sister Jean, recapping the action and offering heartfelt encouragement for what’s next, as shared by the former men’s basketball head coach. Each message was personalized, tailored to the individual recipient. “She still sends me an email after every single game,” former Loyola-Chicago coach Porter Moser once said. “There is no human like her.”

That’s passion, care, and love rolled into one! No one was more devoted to the Ramblers than Sister Jean herself. “But there’d be an email waiting for you,” Whitesell said. “Summarizing the game, giving her points. There was always hope or a positive outlook, but there was also, ‘Hey, look, we got to do this better.’ Good constructive stuff, so you could tell she was all in, all the time.”

Sister Jean wasn’t just a team chaplain but the heart and soul of Loyola University Chicago’s men’s basketball program. She showed the world the power of kindness, the impact of presence, and the difference one person can make simply by caring. Her spirit will forever remain a guiding light for the Ramblers and everyone whose lives she touched.