KENOSHA, Wisc. — After gathering extensive input, Carthage College announced that its 27 NCAA Division III athletic teams will now compete as the Firebirds.
Acting on a recommendation from President John Swallow, the Board of Trustees voted at its February 19 meeting to adopt the new team name. The decision concludes a collaborative five-month search for a unifying Carthage identity.
“We set out to find a team name that represents modern-day Carthage in an inclusive and dynamic way, and this search led us to a name that fits on so many levels,” says Jeff Hamar ’80, chairman of the board. “I know I speak for many Carthaginians in saying I’m proud to be a Firebird.”
Before issuing his recommendation, President Swallow discussed all three finalists with the College-wide task force that coordinated the team name search, as well as students (including student-athletes and Student Government representatives), coaches, and the Alumni Council. Firebirds was chosen over fellow finalists Lake Hawks and Fire.
A mythical creature made of living fire or light, the firebird appears in the folklore of several cultures. In surveys, Carthaginians endorsing the name described it as “bold,” “fierce,” “uncommon,” “majestic,” and “inspiring.”
Many noted the firebird’s ties to the flames in the existing Carthage seal and logo — which represent the torch of knowledge — as well as the College’s primary color, red. Fans also drew a parallel between the radiant beauty of the legendary bird and the natural elegance of the campus, an 80-acre arboretum along Lake Michigan.
“It’s been wonderful to see the excitement that this process has ignited throughout the Carthage community,” said President Swallow. “The new name captures Carthage’s bold history and imagery, as well as its rising trajectory and visibility.”
Release courtesy Carthage College
