The Student-Athlete Experience
7 Reasons to Play Sports at Carthage
Why sacrifice anything? At Carthage College, it’s possible to play sports in college and get a first-rate education. More than one-third of Carthage students compete in our 28 varsity sports. See how you can have it all as a Firebird!
1. The full college experience
Striking an academic and athletic balance is definitely doable at Carthage, even in time-intensive majors like engineering, athletic training, or even nursing. It just takes planning and discipline. During the 2023-24 year, 219 Firebirds competitors earned academic all-conference honors.
“I love how Carthage makes it possible for its students to succeed both on the court and in the classroom. Professors are understanding of our involvement outside of class, and a lot of them take an interest in our games.”
EMMA THISTLE ’25
Women’s Basketball2. The level of competition
In terms of both facilities and talent, newcomers quickly learn there’s nothing third-class about NCAA Division III athletics. Carthage teams and individuals have won 26 national championships, and the Firebirds consistently rise to the top of the well-stocked College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin.
3. The adventures
Some away games stand out from the rest. Over academic breaks, Carthage teams frequently take out-of-state trips to tune up for the season, explore local landmarks, and boost their chemistry. Occasionally, passports are needed. Recent destinations included Italy, Australia, and Colombia, along with a bunch of warm states like Florida, Arizona, and California.
“I had the once-in-a-lifetime experience of traveling to Australia and New Zealand to see the 2023 Women’s World Cup. From watching some incredible soccer to petting kangaroos, traveling with my Carthage family gave me memories I will treasure forever.”
ainsley stallworth ’26
Women’s Soccer
4. The holistic support
When you’re looking to get stronger, faster, or healthier, the certified athletic trainers, physical therapists, strength and conditioning coaches, dietitian, and mental health counselor on our staff are here to help. Student-athletes have exclusive access to hydrotherapy in the Jon Swift Sports Medicine Center, plus recovery tools and nutritious snacks in the N.E.S.T.
5. The camaraderie
You’ll meet all kinds of people at a small school like Carthage, but there’s something about working toward a common goal that bonds teammates. When you practice together, work out together, and travel together, lasting friendships form naturally. Firebirds even organize and carry out community service projects as a team.
“It has always been easy to meet people and make friends due to how supportive and welcoming the upperclassmen are. It feels like they care about the place they’re in and want the people there to care for it, too.”
SIKIEL GRAVES ’25
Football6. The chance to play
Only one thing is assured here: a fair shake. Many Carthage coaches welcome new students to try out. At most colleges with sports programs, it’s varsity or bust. Here, we let athletes continue to develop. Several of our sports have robust JV schedules each year, including the basketball, football, and golf teams, as well as men’s soccer and women’s volleyball.
7. The career growth
You might be too busy competing to notice, but playing a sport builds a uniquely valuable set of skills like time management, communication, leadership, and teamwork. Guided by Carthage’s award-winning career development program, you’ll connect the dots between those student-athlete opportunities and the life you dream of living.
“My team sees a lot of value in the resources The Aspire Center provides. Over four years, they’ll be able to confidently put together a resume, prepare for an interview, and promote themselves to employers. Definitely a win for everybody.”
STEPHANIE DOMIN
Head Coach
Women’s Track and Field / Cross Country
