NEWSLETTER
Most sports fans are aware of Sister Jean, even if it takes a moment to recall. And when they do remember the chaplain for the Loyola Ramblers men’s basketball team of Loyola University Chicago, who came to public attention in the 2018 NCAA Tournament during the team’s cinderella run, they will probably also remember, “Wasn’t she extremely old at the time?”
Well, yes! She was. But age is just a number to Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, who is now 103 and is STILL participating in sporting events. Not only participating, but participating impressively, if you ask me!
Here is Sister Jean at Wrigley Field last night, throwing out the ceremonial first pitch:
Sign her up! The Cubs have a great track record for working with veteran relief arms, after all. I don’t think you can rule out the possibility that they could coax out something great here, and maybe even get a quality prospect in a 2023 deadline trade.
In all seriousness, that is an incredibly impressive ball toss for someone her age. Heck, I have seen FAR WORSE first pitch throws over the years from folks much younger. For example, a personal favorite:
Sister Jean definitely did not hit anyone with her pitch. Clark the Cub was safe throughout the process. Also, I would argue that Sister Jean pulling that pitch off at 103 years old is at least as impressive as a big league pitcher throwing a pitch 103 miles per hour.
For a longer look at Sister Jean’s successful toss, and smile-making moment, enjoy:
