Diego Py Silva

“I love everything about the College, from the amazing sports facilities to the supportive professors and faculty who are always willing to help. What really stood out to me is that, at Carthage, I can receive a high-quality education while also playing the sport I love. It’s the perfect balance between academics and athletics.”

“Being a Firebird means being part of a close-knit and supportive community. It’s about showing up for others, working hard, and growing both as a student and an athlete. I’m proud to represent Carthage in a way that reflects those values.”

“My favorite team memories are our spring break trips to Florida. We go every year, and it’s always such a fun and memorable week. We compete against different schools, and both the women’s and men’s tennis teams travel together, making it even more special. It’s a great time for all of us to bond, enjoy the sport we love, and create really strong team connections outside of our usual routine.”

“The student-athlete community at Carthage is great. Everyone really supports each other, and that’s honestly the best part. It’s a place where people truly care, and you can see that in the way athletes from different teams show up for one another. Being part of such a genuine and encouraging environment makes a big difference. On top of that, our conference is very competitive, which creates a great opportunity to grow as an athlete while still being part of a supportive community.”

“At Carthage, being a student-athlete is definitely manageable because the professors and coaches are very understanding and supportive. As long as you keep clear communication with both, it’s very unlikely you’ll run into problems. Time management is key, and while it can be challenging at first, it definitely gets easier with time.”

“Carthage supports me as a student-athlete in several ways. The protein powders we receive every week and the recovery room really help with recovery and maintaining energy levels. The lifting program is also an essential part of our training, and it has improved my performance on the court. My coach and professors are both incredibly supportive. They emphasize the importance of balancing academics and athletics. My coach understands the demands of being a student-athlete and is always willing to offer flexibility when needed. Similarly, my professors are understanding and approachable, always open to communication and willing to help when I need assistance with coursework. Their support makes it much easier to succeed both on the court and in the classroom.”

“My biggest accomplishment at Carthage is simply being here and balancing academics and athletics. It’s a big achievement for me to be part of such a great community, especially considering the constant challenge of being far away from home. But I’m proud of how I’ve been able to thrive in both areas. It’s not always easy, but it’s a rewarding experience that I’m grateful for every day.”

“My favorite athletic facility on campus is the Smeds Tennis Center. It’s the perfect place for practice and competition, with great courts and a welcoming atmosphere. Having such a dedicated space for tennis makes a huge difference in our training, and I really appreciate how well-maintained and supportive the facility is for our team.”

“I’m a student worker for the Athletic Department. This has been a great opportunity for me, as it allows me to be close to all the sporting events at Carthage. It’s been an amazing experience to get behind-the-scenes insight into the operations of the program while being involved in the sports community here. It has definitely helped me connect more with the broader Carthage athletic family.”

“I want to have my own business in the future, and my student-athlete experience will play a significant role in helping me achieve that. I’ve learned valuable skills like time management, discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, which are crucial for running a successful business. Balancing academics and athletics has taught me how to stay focused and work efficiently, even under pressure, which I know will be essential when managing my own company.”

“My advice for other students is: focus on balance and communication. Here at Carthage, the school provides a lot of resources that make balancing academics and athletics easier. Staying organized and managing your time wisely is key, and always communicate with your professors and coaches if you need support; they’re here to help you succeed. Finally, remember to enjoy the experience! Competing at the college level is a unique opportunity, and it’s important to make the most of it while building lasting relationships and learning both on and off the court.”