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Loyola Chicago’s beloved Sister Jean promises ‘not to cause any disturbance’ if granted permission to attend NCAA Tournament
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Loyola Chicago guaranteed itself a spot in this year’s NCAA Tournament by posting an impressive 24-4 record this season and winning the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament title this month. And team chaplain Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt wants to accompany the Ramblers in Indianapolis.
With capacity restrictions and NCAA guidelines, there’s a chance that Sister Jean — who become a beloved personality during Loyola Chicago’s improbable Final Four run in 2018 — won’t be able to attend. She’s not going to take “no” for an answer so easily, though.
Speaking with Chicago Tribune’s Shannon Ryan recently after the Ramblers secured their spot in Indy, Sister Jean says she “has not lost hope in going,” and wants to experience another tournament run. Her appeal to the NCAA? She won’t cause any disturbances.
“They said there’s restrictions,” Sister Jean told Ryan. “You can’t run down on the court. You can’t talk to the young men. I said, ‘I’m not going to run down on the court, and I’m not going to cause any disturbance.’ I said, ‘I won’t do things I’m not supposed to.'”
Loyola Chicago head coach Porter Moser said in an ESPN radio interview that he’d bet money on Sister Jean making the trip to Indianapolis. Even at 101, she’s still got some fire.
“She didn’t go to St. Louis and she was so mad,” Moser said. “She said, ‘Porter, I looked them in the eye and said I’m more healthy than you. I have my vaccination. I’ve been tested 30 times.’ She’s on it. I’m just telling you, I’d put my money on she’d be in Indy.”
We’ll see if the NCAA gives Sister Jean the permission she is seeking.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB