Lutheran Schools Week is in full swing! Today Concordia Chicago Athletics spotlights another former Cougar athlete who allowed their love for faith and sport to propel them to a career encompassing both of those passions.

Becky (Aumann) Schumacher BA '12 made an impact as a Cougar for the volleyball and track and field teams while also working as a student athletic trainer. Following her time at CUC, Becky began teaching physical education at Faith Lutheran Las Vegas. 

"I've attended Lutheran schools my whole life," said Schumacher. "The thing I love about being a part of them is the ability to talk about Christ and our relationship with him without worry." 

Schumacher has been around sports her entire life. Growing up, her father was a basketball coach at Racine Lutheran High School (Wis.), and now, her husband currently coaches football. She grew accustomed to celebrating birthdays and other events around the unconventional schedule of athletics. 

Schumacher's family has an extensive athletic history in River Forest. Her father, Jim, played baseball for the Cougars and her grandfather, Connie, coached baseball, football and softball at CUC before serving as the university's athletic director.

If the name Connie Aumann sounds familiar, that's because the Cougar statue outside the stadium is dedicated to him. 

"Sports impacted more of my prayer life than going to school and talking about the Bible did," said Schumacher. "Being able to bring part of me to practices and games made me realize I had more in common with my teammates than I ever thought. I realized we're all going through similar things."

One of Schumacher's fondest memories in her time at CUC was her coach taking prayer requests before, during and after practice. She believes that the power of prayer can unite people in uncertain times, and she has seen that even more in the past year.

"Being a part of a team can do a lot for development as a Christian," said Schumacher. "Other people are praying for you and know your struggles. Peace and comfort from God and from people around you."

Schumacher has kept with her all of the lessons she learned in faith and athletics throughout her life. She never thought she would end up in Las Vegas, but believes that is where God called her to go share His word. 

"It's important to spotlight Lutheran schools because they're different," said Schumacher. "They're places where we can love and share God's word on a different level. It's good to celebrate as a whole, from the smallest school to the largest."