Routt sophomore talks PR performance, State finals journey
By Ryne Turke
Millie Schumacher is quickly becoming a familiar face and a force to be reckoned with at the Illinois High School Association Track and Field State Finals.
The Routt Catholic High School sophomore captured the IHSA Class 1A State Championship in the 800-meter run last week at O’Brien Field on the campus of Eastern Illinois University, crossing the finish line in a personal best time of 2:13.08.
The event turned into one of the most competitive races of the weekend as Schumacher held off a talented field that included Illini Bluffs freshman Audrey Dickinson and St. Anthony junior Aubrey Denning, who both finished less than two seconds behind her.
Schumacher said the atmosphere on the biggest stage in Illinois high school track is unlike anything athletes experience during the regular season.
“It’s a very exciting and electric environment,” Schumacher said. “Running on the blue nine lane track with announcers, officials and screens projecting everything you do is really cool. There are a lot of people cheering, but once the race starts you really don’t hear it. I was nervous going into the race, but my goal is always to run my best and compete. I’m really proud of myself and my time.”
Just a sophomore, Schumacher already owns more state level experience than most athletes achieve in an entire career. During her eighth grade season at Our Saviour School, Schumacher won the Illinois Elementary School Association state title in the 400-meter run, placed fifth in the 800 and helped lead her team to a third place overall finish.
Most recently at the IHSA Class 1A State Finals, it was a packed weekend for Schumacher, who not only claimed the state title in the 800, but also competed in the 400-meter dash and the 1,600-meter run against some of the top talent in Illinois.
Schumacher credited RCHS Track & Field Head Coach Tony Jenkins and the Routt coaching staff for helping guide her through the mental and physical challenges of the season.
“The coaches were a major source of influence throughout the season,” Schumacher said. “They walked me through so many meets and talked me through every aspect of the race. We do plenty of hard work. I run with the boys and I love showing up to the track every day to push myself.”
Jenkins said Schumacher executed the race plan perfectly to win the state title.
“We knew getting to the break first was key to avoiding getting boxed in,” Jenkins said. “She let the pace take her through 350, then with 450 to go she made her move. She separated herself from the pack and never looked back. She gave it everything she had.”
Jenkins said Schumacher’s success comes from far more than talent alone.
“That’s just Millie,” Jenkins said. “Determination. Self discipline. She hates to lose. She not only understands the process, but falls in love with it. She remains coachable throughout the process and is always looking for small improvements that help her reach her goals at state. She’s a great runner, but an even better human being. She’s always cheering on others and celebrating their success. She’s setting the standard for those who come after her.”
Looking back, Schumacher said the season rewarded the hard work Routt invested all year long.
“I’m really thankful for the support of this school and community. It’s special to be part of this town and represent the Routt Rockets.”
While Schumacher already owns a state championship medal, she said her focus moving forward is not centered on titles or placements, but on continuing to improve as a runner.
“I hope to pursue running at the collegiate level someday,” Schumacher said. “For the next two years, I just want to continue pushing myself and working hard. I just want to dedicate myself to the sport.”
Her advice for younger runners in the community is simple.
“Don’t give up and keep persevering,” Schumacher said. “Running is a process, so trust your training and the work you put in.”
