By CHASE UPTON/Sports Editor
TYLER, Texas- Sam Schott has been named the 2025 NCAA Woman of the Year, the National Collegiate Athletic Association announced Wednesday. Out of more than 235,000 female student-athletes competing at the NCAA level, Schott is the woman selected for the prestigious honor.
A native of Longview, Schott is the first UT Tyler athlete to earn the award, and just the fifth Division II athlete, third Texas athlete, and second softball player to receive the honor in its more than 30-year history. Among the Top 30 finalists this year was also Paige Bueckers, the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s WNBA Draft, highlighting the elite group from which Schott emerged.
Schott’s journey is one of faith, grit and relentless determination. She joined the UT Tyler softball program as a walk-on and rose to become a two-time national champion, team leader, and one of the most respected student-athletes in NCAA Division II. She started every game in her final two seasons, setting the foundation for the Patriots’ back-to-back national championships.
Over her four-year career, Schott hit .328 with a .470 on-base percentage and drove in 137 RBIs, helping lead the Patriots to an astonishing 120–13 record in her final two seasons. She also holds the school records for most games played and most career sacrifice bunts. A sacrifice bunt is when a player intentionally gives up their at-bat to move a teammate on base into scoring position, a stat that illustrates her unselfish approach and dedication to the team’s success.
“She started as a walk-on, and the fact that she is able to end her career as the NCAA Woman of the Year is just a testament to her drive, her competitive nature, and who she is as a person. She brought those traits each and every day, not just with her, but for her team,” head coach Mike Reed said.
Reed praised her influence to UT Tyler softball’s culture.
“For her to win back-to-back national championships in her junior and senior years, that’s evidence of the type of impact she’s had on our program,” he said.
He also highlighted the balance between her athletic and academic excellence.
“I want everyone to know you can be a college athlete and have a hard major. She was a biochemistry major. Kids are told that you can’t do both, but if you have passion and drive for both, Sam is a great example that you can,” Reed said.
When asked if UT Tyler would have been back-to-back national champions without Schott, Reed didn’t hesitate.
“Oh no, you can look at the stats and see for yourself, but behind that is four years here where at times we had to pull her from the outfield to play different positions, and with all she’s done, she has really been the glue of this team. There’s no way we’re there without not only her contributions to the game, but who she was every day,” he said.
Schott’s impact extends far beyond UT Tyler. She has been active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and participated in mission trips abroad, helping provide medical care and support to underserved communities. Schott is also currently enrolled in the UT Tyler School of Medicine as part of the Class of 2029, where she is pursuing her Doctorate of Medicine (M.D.) and she has yet to decide her specialty.
The athletic department held a press conference announcing Schott’s selection at the UT Tyler Alumni House on Nov. 5. UT Tyler president Dr. Julie V. Philley reflected on the significance of the award and what lies ahead for Schott.
“I think that’s what makes this award so special. It’s not about what she’s already accomplished. It’s about the incredible impact she’ll continue to make in the lives of others,” Philley said.
Reed added to Philley’s sentiment.
“This is a great accomplishment, but definitely won’t be Sam’s last. You hope when these athletes come here that after their four years you help as a coach make them better… I can tell you in her four years playing here she made me a better person,” he said.
When Schott stepped to the microphone, she shared a heartfelt message for her former teammates and the next generation of Patriots.
“If I could give you one piece of advice, I’d say just be grateful for every day,” Schott said. “It really is such a privilege to play college athletics. Cherish these moments because it does end one day, but you’ll remember these moments forever.”
For Schott, winning this award reflects more than personal achievement.
“I want people to know that nothing is possible without the goodness of God. God has used me in these last four years, and it isn’t my power, it’s His power,” Schott said.
Schott’s story from walk-on to national champion to NCAA Woman of the Year, stands as a testament to what can be accomplished through dedication, faith, and perseverance. And with her unwavering drive and heart for others, there’s little doubt she’ll find success in the future.
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