A glimpse at the harmonious blend of sports and spirituality in the life of a nun.
In Detroit, Anne Yoches, known as Sr. Rita Clare, transitions from a college athlete to a nun, preparing for her final vows. Her journey reflects a unique blend of sports and spirituality, highlighting her commitment to both physical health and community service.
In the charming city of Detroit, a remarkable journey comes full circle as Anne Yoches, known in her spiritual life as Sr. Rita Clare, prepares to make her final vows as a nun. This transition is as beautiful as it is unexpected, tracing a path from the basketball courts to the cloistered halls of convent life.
Before donning the habit, Yoches was a standout athlete at the University of Detroit Mercy, where she awoke before dawn to hit the basketball court for three-hour practices. The discipline required for such early mornings mirrors her current routine, where each day begins at 5 a.m. But instead of practicing layups, she spends four hours in prayer and ministry work. As a member of the Franciscan Sisters, T.O.R. of Penance of the Sorrowful Mother, she finds a unique comradery among the 24 other sisters in her convent, reminiscent of the bonds of her basketball teams.
Once upon a time, in her high school years, Yoches wasn’t just a one-sport wonder. She mastered multiple sports—including basketball, volleyball, soccer, softball, and even golf. Her remarkable skills led her to help her team, Divine Child, clinch two state championships, showcasing a competitive spirit that would follow her into collegiate and professional sports.
With talent that spoke volumes, Yoches received a full-ride scholarship to play basketball for the Titans at the University of Detroit Mercy. Throughout her college career, she made a noticeable impact on the court, averaging 5.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. Under the guidance of her coach, Anne Rexford, she transitioned from playing forward to point guard in her senior year, further evolving her skills and stepping up as a team leader.
Upon graduating in 2001 with a degree in Sports Medicine, Yoches continued her athletic career as a strength and conditioning coach at Notre Dame. In 2003, she boldly joined the Detroit Demolition women’s football team, where she proudly played as a fullback until 2006, contributing to four national championship victories.
Despite her flourishing sports career, life took a significant turn at age 23 during a transformative retreat in Assisi. It was here that she felt a calling to embrace a spiritual life, a decision that led her to make temporary vows in 2012 and will culminate in her final vows on June 30, 2024.
Yoches’ journey has certainly had its ups and downs. While serving as a campus minister at Florida State University, she found connection and solace with her past, reaching out to her former coach during a challenging time of grief. Today, Sr. Rita Clare cherishes her relationship with God, feeling like she truly lives with Jesus in her convent, which conveniently includes access to a church.
Combining her athletic background with her newfound ministry, she approaches her spiritual life with the same competitive drive she displayed on the field. She has maintained an active lifestyle, enjoying jogging, weightlifting, and even engaging in friendly games of touch football and basketball. Sr. Rita Clare’s commitment to fitness continues, proving that her passion for physical health is here to stay.
Recently, she was honored with the Fr. Norbert Huetter Award from the University of Detroit Mercy. This accolade recognizes her deep commitment to the mission of St. Ignatius Loyola and her spirit of service. The award ceremony took place during a thrilling men’s basketball game and stands as a reminder of how far she has come.
Despite the drastic changes in her life, Yoches wholeheartedly embraces her role as a nun and is already planning to organize sports activities within her convent. For those drawn to spiritual life, she encourages exploring religious orders and investing time in prayer and reflection, reminding everyone that the journey can be as unique and rewarding as one’s own personal game plan.
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