Schneider becomes 13th member of 1,000 point club

MEQUON, Wis. - Mitchell Schneider knew this day was coming. The hype has been building over the last several games as he inched ever closer to the illustrious 1,000 point club. Before the game began his parents were waiting, his friends were cheering and those in attendance were counting down the final 10 points he needed.

The 6-foot-3 guard finally accomplished the long-awaited personal goal on Saturday when he drained a 12-foot jumper from the baseline during the second half of a 90-68 Northern Athletics Conference victory over Aurora University inside the R. John Buuck Field House.

"It is an honor to join the other members of the 1,000 point men's basketball club," Schneider said. "There are a lot of great players and men on that list. To be honest, I haven't thought about scoring 1,000 points until just now. I'll take some time to reflect on this day with my family and friends, but this would have never happened without the support of everyone around me, especially my teammates and coaches."

The New Holstein, Wis., native and CUW captain didn't flaunt to the crowd or ask for the game to be stopped to recognize his achievement; he just sprinted to the opposite end of the court and played defense as he always does.

"Mitch is an outstanding leader and a great ambassador for this program," head coach Shawn Cassidy said. "He has been at the foundation of this program since he arrived on campus four years ago and this day has been a long time coming."

The four-year student athlete for the Falcons has been a crucial part of CUW's success over the past number of years. The All-Northern Athletics Conference Second Team performer has done more than just put points on the scoreboard. He has stolen 135 career passes - which ranks ninth all-time in CUW annals - and has 328 rebounds, 137 assists and 51 blocks.

Schneider has also received recognition by the Northern Athletics Conference during his sophomore year (Honorable Mention) and was also named to the All-Freshman Team following his rookie campaign. The Athletic Training student has helped the Falcons to 58 victories, including a 23-5 campaign last year which culminated in a trip to the NCAA Tournament.

Just a season ago the Falcons had the opportunity to honor Edward Newton-Kemp after he scored his 1,000 career point during a home victory. Since Cassidy took over the program prior to the 2007-08 season there have been four members, including Schneider, to have joined the prestigious club during his time as leader.