Chris joined AOA in 2002 under the watchful guidance of Frank Nitti and Frank Moscardini; and was an AOA Member for 17 years. Schaefer served on the AOA Softball Board Member from 2005 to 2018. Chris is a 7-time IESA State Final Official (2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2021); and a 3-time IHSA State Final Official (1/2A – 2013, 3/4A – 2016 & 3A Plate Umpire for the 3A Championship Game – 2019). Schaefer was named as the 2013-2014 IHSA Softball Official of the Year and was a 2018 Illinois Coaches Association Hall of Fame Inductee.