GREEN BAY, Wis. – Kendall Schara, a senior on the University of Wisconsin‑Green Bay women’s volleyball team, announced she will again line up as a starter this season. The announcement comes less than two years after she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, a disease that forced her to miss what would have been her senior campaign.
From diagnosis to determination
Schara received her cancer diagnosis in April 2025. The news halted her athletic pursuits and prompted a period of intensive treatment and recovery. “The last year has been a lot, but it’s been really cool and something that’s really unique to me,” she told local reporters.
During her treatment, Schara focused on her health, saying, “I said bye and I just knew I needed to focus only on my health at this time.” As she regained strength, the thought of returning to the court grew stronger. “I would rather try to play, and it was unknown whether I’d be able to physically and mentally do it, than look back and regret not trying,” she explained.
Support from the university
UW‑Green Bay Chancellor Michael Alexander praised Schara’s perseverance, noting that her comeback embodies the spirit of the Phoenix, the university’s mascot. “To watch Kendall come back on the court after battling cancer and now being here today and playing on a Division I volleyball team awesomely is something that we should all be inspired by,” Alexander said.
Schara echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the personal message she hopes her journey conveys. “I think that I’ll just be able to share and tell people that you can just really do whatever you want to do. I feel like that’s what I did. Something that people always told me in the beginning was that I’m so strong. It’s something I didn’t really believe until I went through this, and I proved to myself that I am strong, I can do it,” she said.
Season outlook
The Phoenix are off to a solid start this season, and Schara’s return adds depth and leadership to the roster. While the team’s final standing remains uncertain, her presence alone marks a triumph over adversity that transcends wins and losses.
UW‑Green Bay will host Northern Illinois on Friday at 6 p.m., giving fans a chance to see Schara back in action and celebrate her remarkable recovery.
Community impact
Schara’s story has resonated throughout Green Bay, inspiring fellow students, athletes, and families facing health challenges. Local supporters have highlighted the importance of perseverance, faith, and community backing in overcoming personal trials.
As the season progresses, Schara hopes her experience will encourage others to pursue their goals despite obstacles, reinforcing the message that strength of character can triumph over even the toughest battles.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
