Carrie Carleton, A Chatham-Kent Athlete Who Came baCK

Chatham-Kent sends athletes across Ontario, Canada, and the globe each year to compete athletically. Sponsored by baCK to Chatham-Kent, we’ll be featuring local athletes who have left Chatham-Kent, and are now baCK, living, working, and staying connected to our own vibrant sports community in CK.

This week, we feature Chatham’s Carrie Carleton.

Carleton, a former basketball standout played NCAA basketball at Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Carleton was named to Division II All-American Teams in her last two years at Grand Valley State, and following her playing career, was inducted into the GVSU Hall of Fame, as well as the Chatham Sports Hall of Fame.

Carleton currently lives in Chatham with her husband Rob, and has three daughters.

Here are Carrie’s responses to our baCK to Chatham-Kent athletes interview:

1. Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Chatham. The elementary school I attended was St. Ursula before going to John McGregor SS.

2. What is your favourite Chatham-Kent pastime?

Some of my favourite things to do in Chatham-Ken are going to our family cottage on Lake Erie, walking the paths, biking and visiting local establishments.

3. What did you do after high school?

I attended Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids Michigan. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and played basketball all four years. I attended University of Windsor and earned my Bachelor of Education. I began coaching in Chatham during that year.

4. What are you doing now?

Presently, I am a Teacher and Coach.

5. What has made you happiest, or been the best surprise about moving baCK to Chatham-Kent?

The thing that make me happiest is family. I am very lucky to have most of my family in this area as we are as close as family can be. I also am so thankful for this entire community. I have called Chatham home for my entire life. I have so many connections from all aspects of my world that it is always fun to be out around town and visit with so many people in this community. I continue to be amazed at the generosity and support that this community gives whatever the cause; whether it be the May 16 Miracle or supporting local athletes like my daughter Bridget.

6. What would you tell someone who is considering living in Chatham-Kent?

I would tell young people considering to make Chatham Kent their home is that Chatham Kent is a great place to raise a family. It is safe and there are so many opportunities for young people. Opportunities that are affordable. Part of the reason for this is that we have amazing volunteers in this community. All three of our girls were very active in many different sports growing up and we were very lucky to have some awesome volunteer coaches in every sport they were involved with.

7. Why did you choose to move baCK to Chatham-Kent?

The biggest reason Rob and I chose to live in Chatham is because we wanted to be close to our families and raise our family in the community we both grew up in. We love being from a small city where people are friendly and genuine.

8.Describe your current sports involvement?

I have coached high school basketball for the almost 30 years. I love the game and wish I could still play. Instead, I golf and work out at The Health House. Rob and I walk and bike to keep active. I am an all-around sports fan but my favourite sport to watch is Women’s NCAA basketball and of course Canada Basketball and the WNBA.