Peyton Olinski

“I chose Carthage because of the beautiful campus and its welcoming community. The sports facilities are some of the nicest I’ve ever seen, and the student-to-athlete ratio is perfect for me.”

“To me, being a Firebird means being relentless, bold, and inspiring. Carthage gives you a chance to be a part of something bigger than yourself, and the Firebird mentality captures that.”

“I truly think every single home game is so memorable and honorable. Being able to play at Carthage for fans and students is so inspiring. We have improved our home turf field and added unique lights that exhilarate the crowd and players. Each time we play at home, it gives me a sense of joy to represent such an amazing school.”

“The student-athlete community is one of the best things about Carthage. I speak so highly of the community that has been built here because everyone supports each other, and it shouldn’t be any other way. The mix between being a student and an athlete is ideal and should be a model for other DIII schools.”

“I’m really glad I chose a college that fosters close relationships with professors and has smaller class sizes to enhance learning. I have been able to balance my athletics really well because our soccer season allows for time off the field to focus on schoolwork. That is one of the best things I could’ve asked for as a student-athlete — having time to study and learn for my future, but also time to concentrate on the sport I love.”

“Coach Chelsea Davis does a really good job of being attentive to every player and their life outside of soccer. She is always asking about us as individuals and supports us with anything we struggle with. I feel there are so many resources at Carthage to help me succeed and become the best version of myself. There are always events going on to help my time here become memorable and enjoyable. The close-knit community Carthage has helps me as an individual because I’ve always felt comfortable here.”

“I’ve been recognized for both my athletics and academics here at Carthage. I’ve had my goal celebration song scream loudly at our home turf field when I score for my soccer team and my name on the Dean’s List for my academics. For me, it’s for something bigger than myself. It’s for my family, my teammates, and for everyone who continues to support me during my time here at the College.”

“I truly love Art Keller Field. Playing on such a nice home field is amazing and honorable. The Tarble Athletic and Recreation Center itself is incredible, from the locker room to The N.E.S.T., every inch of the sports facility is beyond beautiful.”

“I’m a psychology major, and I’m hoping to go into sports psychology. I want to help athletes with their mental health because I’ve been through a lot playing soccer for 13 years. When I mentioned this to my coach, the first thing she asked was if there was anything I wanted to do with the team to learn from them as a psychology major. This truly showed me the care that the coaches have for their team and the community we have here at Carthage.”

“I think harsh truths are the best pieces of advice. So with that being said, I would say first, failure is inevitable. There are going to be times when you feel as though nothing is going your way or something happens you don’t think you can get past. I promise you, you will overcome each and every obstacle that comes your way. As a student-athlete, be confident and patient. Being patient may sound hard, but even if you have to wait, what’s meant for you will come.”