Biography:
Sarah Schkeeper is an American football player who made an indelible mark on the sport as a guard for the New York Sharks. Known as The Viking for her distinctive braided pigtails, she joined the team as a rookie in 2009 and went on to start in every career game. Schkeeper’s tenacity and skill were instrumental in establishing the New York Sharks as the longest-running and most successful professional women’s football team in history.
Born in Livingston, New Jersey, Schkeeper grew up with two older brothers, honing her football skills by playing with the boys. However, it wasn’t until she joined the New York Sharks that she embarked on her organized sports journey. Her dedication to the game quickly became evident as she brought her fierce determination and unwavering commitment to every practice and game.
During her time with the New York Sharks, Schkeeper became a force to be reckoned with on the field, using her skill as a guard to protect the team’s quarterback and open up opportunities for scoring. Her dedication and talent earned her the respect and admiration of her teammates, who affectionately nicknamed her The Crypt-Schkeeper.
In 2013, Schkeeper’s abilities were recognized on a national level when she was selected to represent the United States as part of USA Football’s National Women’s Team in the second IFAF Woman’s World Championship in Vantaa, Finland. As the starting right guard, she played an integral role in leading the team to victory, with impressive wins over Sweden (84-0), Germany (107-7), and Canada (64-0) in the gold medal match.
After the 2013 season, Schkeeper moved out of the New York area and made the decision to part ways with the New York Sharks. However, her passion for the sport remained unabated, leading her to establish a new team in Richmond, Virginia, called the Richmond Black Widows. The team became a part of the Women’s Football Alliance and started competing in the 2016 season.
Beyond football, Schkeeper possesses a spirit of resilience and fearlessness that extends to other aspects of her life. An avid cyclist, she has faced adversity head-on, surviving two separate accidents with vehicles in a four-month span. Despite these incidents, including a concussion and a dislocated rib that went untreated for six months, she earned a reputation among her teammates as unbreakable. Her determination and unwavering spirit inspire not only her teammates but also those who follow her journey.
In addition to her love for football, Schkeeper also enjoys playing full-contact flag football with her teammates on a team called The Honey Badgers. Her contagious enthusiasm and willingness to tackle challenges, both on and off the field, make her an exceptional athlete and a true role model.