Schumacher signs letter of intent with Doane College Tigers

With his parents and former coach looking on, Sam Schumacher was all smiles as he signed a letter of intent to play football for the Doane College Tigers yesterday.

Schumacher, who played largely as a linebacker and running Back for Leyton High School, still doesn’t know what side of the ball he will play on for Doane. But he’s excited about the challenge and ready to put in the work he’ll need to prove himself.

“He deserves it, he’s earned it. It was a pleasure watching him blossom from a freshman and then through last year dealing with frustrating injuries,” said Leyton head football coach Glen Lipska. “Then this year seeing it come together where he had an excellent year.”

The program Schumacher is entering expects alot. While Doane first fielded a team in 1891 and has more than 500 wins, its recent teams may be among its best. Seventh-year Head Coach Matt Franzen has led Doane to national rankings the past two seasons.

Tiger defensive coordinator Chris Bessler has been in frequent contact with Schumacher throughout the recruiting process. In case their powers of persuasion were not strong enough, Doane employed the services of former Leyton player Jeremy Reimers.

“We were friends when he played here,” said Schumacher who indicated a high level of respect for Reimers.

Reimers is in his third year at Doane and plays outside linebacker.

But it was more than just the presuasive powers of Franzen, Bessler and Reimers. Doane apparently had a product that was easy to sell. Schumacher was pleased with their first-class facilities.

“They have a brand new weight and equipment room there,” said Schumacher. “I was very impressed with all their facilities during my tour there.”

But Schumacher didn’t make his final decision until just over a week ago.

“I was waiting to see what kind of athletic scholarship they would offer me,” he said.

When Schumacher learned he was getting a college education for half price the deal was pretty much set. He informed Doane of his decision just eight days ago. Already the Doane College website has posted a brief biography of Schumacher.

Since his decision to sign occurred so recently, his position is listed on the recruitment list as “ATH” for athlete. Though time will tell where Schumacher will fit in, he has indicated a preference for offense. At 6’ 1” and athletic he may become a useful wide-out. Perhaps if he gains a few extra pounds he could wind up at tight end.

Despite his preference for offense Schumacher seems to think he may end up on the other side of the ball as a strong safety, which would suit him fine. Most of all he loves the game and wants to play and contribute.

“He’s loved most sports his whole life,” said Schumacher’s father Scott. “When he was little he used to drag me over to the gym constantly.

“He’s put a lot of work into this and he will continue to. He’s earned it. He deserves it,” added Schumacher.

As for his mother, Kim Brekel, she was hoping he might pursue basketball in college.

“I just love basketball,” she said. “But I’m happy for him and very proud.”

Pursuing basketball would not have been a far-fetched notion for Schumacher. He was a key in Leyton playing in the state tournament last season. His ability as an all-around athlete seems to be one of the strong factors in Doane’s interest in Schumacher.

Concluded Lipska, “I think he’ll do well. He’s smart, he knows the game well and is a good athlete.”