Loyola-Chicago Honors Sister Jean with Jersey Patch This Season

Loyola-Chicago’s men’s basketball team will honor the late Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt by wearing a commemorative patch on their jerseys throughout the upcoming season. The announcement was made on October 10, 2023, via a social media post that featured the message, “Our biggest fan will be with us all season long.”

Sister Jean passed away on October 9, 2023, at the age of 106. She became a beloved figure to fans and players alike, particularly during the Ramblers’ remarkable run to the Final Four in the 2018 NCAA tournament. Born Dolores Bertha Schmidt on August 21, 1919, she took the name Sister Jean Dolores in 1937, shortly before joining the Loyola-Chicago staff in 1991.

A Legacy of Support and Inspiration

Initially serving as an academic adviser, Sister Jean transitioned to the role of chaplain for the basketball team just three years later. Her devotion to the Ramblers was evident during their 2018 tournament journey, where they, as a No. 11 seed, defied the odds to reach the Final Four, ultimately falling to Michigan. At the age of 98, she was seen praying for the team and their opponents before each game, encouraging them to play hard, play together, and play smart.

Unfortunately, health issues forced Sister Jean to step back from her position in August 2023. Yet, her spirit and influence remain deeply ingrained in the Loyola-Chicago basketball program.

The Ramblers are set to open their season at home on October 16, 2023, against Cleveland State. The team and fans are eager to carry Sister Jean’s legacy into the new season, embodying the spirit of resilience and community she championed.

As the players wear the patch, they will not only honor Sister Jean’s memory but also celebrate her unwavering support for the team and her impact on the Loyola-Chicago community.