Jordan Mok
Jordan Mok
Class Year
’28
Hometown
Palatine, Illinois
Major(s)
Exercise and Sports Science, Secondary Education
Sport(s)
Soccer
Finding his love for soccer early on, Jordan Mok ’28 joined his hometown’s local soccer league at 4 years old. His passion for the sport led him to Carthage, where he plays as a center defensive midfielder on the men’s soccer team. His commitment to the game has translated into success both on the field and in the classroom, as he pursues exercise and sports science and secondary education degrees. Drawing on his student-athlete experience, Jordan plans to play professional soccer once he graduates.
Why I chose Carthage
“I chose Carthage because of the amazing soccer program and the great people on the team. There’s a real family environment that made me feel welcome right away. On top of that, Carthage is an excellent school with a supportive staff dedicated to helping students succeed. The Exercise and Sport Science Department is also a big reason I chose Carthage — it’s a strong program that aligns perfectly with my academic and career goals.”
What it means to be a Firebird
“Being a Firebird means being part of a family that always sticks together. It represents a group of hardworking people who never give up, no matter our challenges. It’s about supporting each other and pushing ourselves to be our best — on and off the field.”
My favorite team memory
“My favorite memory with the Carthage team was our trip to Pennsylvania. It was an amazing experience where I grew closer with my teammates — we took a flight together and made unforgettable memories off the field. It brought us together and created bonds that will last a lifetime.”
What makes the student-athlete community special
“The student-athlete community at Carthage is amazing. Everyone is so nice and welcoming, and there’s a strong sense of support between all the sports teams. We all get along well and try to go to each other’s games to cheer each other on. It truly feels like one big athletic family.”
How I balance academics and athletics
“I balance being a student and an athlete well. Our coaches give us enough time before and after practice to focus on our schoolwork. I also take advantage of spaces like The Tower and the library to study and stay on top of my academics.”
The support that helps me succeed
“My coaches and professors are incredibly supportive. Coach Paul Leese encourages me to be my best both on and off the field — he’s one of the best coaches I’ve had and always gives me the confidence I need, whether in the classroom or during games. My professors are also great; they understand that I’m a student-athlete and work with me to stay on track, always checking in and ensuring I’m doing well academically. It also means a lot that the staff and faculty come out to our games to cheer us on — it shows how much they care and support us beyond the classroom.”
My biggest accomplishment at Carthage
“My biggest accomplishment at Carthage so far is leading the team in assists and finishing second in the entire conference for assists as a freshman. It was a great feeling to make an impact immediately and contribute to the team’s success.”
My favorite athletic facility
“My favorite athletic facility on campus is the athletic training room. The staff there are amazing and always supportive of the athletes. It’s also filled with high-tech resources and equipment that help us stay healthy, recover faster, and perform at our best.”
My career goal
“My career goal is to play professional soccer, and I believe Carthage is the best place to help me achieve that. The great coaching staff here has provided invaluable experience, and the state-of-the-art facilities give me everything I need to improve and take my game to the next level. My time as a student-athlete is helping me develop the skills, discipline, and work ethic I need for a successful career on and off the field.”
Advice for other student-athletes
“My advice for other students considering competing at the college level is that it’s your best decision. You get to play the sport you love, form everlasting friendships, and meet incredible people along the way. The experiences and connections you make are truly special and worth it.”