CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – Teagan Schaefer has been a multi-sport athlete for the better part of her life.
That’s why when the time came to choose a college, it was important for her to find a place where she could continue competing in both basketball and golf.
As it turns out, she found just the place in the American Rivers Conference (A-R-C).
Schaefer is heading into her junior year as a student-athlete for the Norse, and it’s safe to say she’s made the most out of her experience so far.
In addition to competing in two sports, Schaefer is also involved with Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Student Athletic Advisory Committee.
In everything she’s been a part of, Schaefer said she’s been surrounded by a supportive campus community.
“I chose Luther because it felt like home,” she said. “There are amazing professors, coaches, and administrators who care and support everyone. Small town Decorah is the perfect place to spend four years, and I have been fortunate enough to meet some of my best friends at Luther.”
A SPECIAL COMMUNITY
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One of Schaefer’s favorite aspects of being a Division III student-athlete is the competitiveness and community within the A-R-C.
“The matches, meets, and games are always pushing you to be a better team or player, while also coming together as athletes and coaches to grow the love for the sport,” she said.
Schaefer has certainly experienced that on the golf course, as she was named to the 2022-23 Women’s Golf Coaches Association (WGCA) All-American Scholar Team.
When competing, Schaefer has fond memories of traveling to and from meets with her teammates.
“This time allowed my teammates and I to bond and grow closer not only as a team, but as lifelong friends,” she said.
When she’s not competing, Schaefer enjoys attending other sporting events on campus and supporting her fellow student-athletes.
“I want the world to know that Luther has the best people,” she said. “The community is beyond welcoming, safe, and accepting. It is a great home away from home.”
NEW EXPERIENCES
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Schaefer has learned a variety of lessons in her two years at Luther College.
However, if she had to narrow it down to one, it would be to put herself out there and try new things.
One thing people may not know about Schaefer is that she loves to sing.
“In elementary and high school, I was in show choir, a musical, a select small ensemble, talent shows, and sang at church,” she said.
While she has a passion for singing, Schaefer is also pursuing her dream of becoming an elementary school teacher.
Schaefer’s career goal is to teach first, second, or third grade in an elementary school close to home.
But before she gets to that point, Schaefer still has two more years of competing in the A-R-C and making memories that will last a lifetime.
It all started with a supportive environment and a community that made Schaefer feel right at home.
“There’s no place I’d rather be,” she said.
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About the American Rivers Conference
The Conference dates back to December 8, 1922, when representatives from 12 colleges got together and formed the "Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Association." Honoring its heritage in Iowa and its expansion outside the state, the American Rivers Conference brand was established on August 9, 2018, to build on the academic and athletic success provided by its legacy, the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. The A-R-C has nine full-time members: Buena Vista University, Central College, Coe College, University of Dubuque, Loras College, Luther College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Simpson College, and Wartburg College.
