Whether you’re an upperclassman or a freshman, there’s a good chance you have heard the name Carter Brock. As both an active leader and a student-athlete, Brock has established a reputation for excelling in all aspects of college life. He sets himself apart by showing that he is more than just a student-athlete. His commitment to community, discipline, and drive reflects his determination to help shape the culture at Southern Nazarene University.
Brock’s road to SNU resembled that of many college athletes, but he soon discovered that SNU offered so much more than just football. “I originally chose SNU to play football, but what really attracted me to this school over others was the Christian values and love for Christ on this campus,” he shared. Beyond the values, it was the community that left a lasting impression. “The people were so welcoming and I truly just enjoyed the ‘purposefully different’ experience,” Brock added. His decision to attend SNU was intentional, and so was his choice of study..
For Brock, selecting a major was shaped by the influence of a high school coach. During those years, Carter worked with a strength and conditioning coach who had recently graduated from college. Brock admired the guidance he received and believed his coach was not only preparing him athletically but also inspiring his vision for academics. “My coach made me fall in love with the science behind training and learning how to optimize my football performance,” Brock expressed. Just as his coach inspired his academic path, Brock’s time at SNU has opened doors for leadership opportunities that allow him to impact students in similar ways.
As a starter on the football team as well as the SALT and Senate Chair, Brock plays a significant role in leadership on campus. Although he had always seen himself as a leader, stepping into these roles at SNU required him to move outside his comfort zone. “I was first introduced to SALT my freshman year when Brix Schmitt contacted me about joining the Sports and Recreation team,” Brock recalled. “At first, I was hesitant because I was comfortable in my football bubble, but eventually I decided to join.” That choice became the starting point of Brock’s college leadership journey, one that has continued to expand each year.
Through his journey, Brock has found that the most rewarding part is not the titles he holds but the relationships he builds along the way. By stepping out of the “football bubble,” he has been able to connect with people he might not have otherwise. “SNU is such a diverse place, with amazing people from all sorts of backgrounds, and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know so many people outside of football,” Brock voiced. These connections have made a lasting impact, helping him grow both as a man and as a Christ-follower. “I will forever be grateful for this opportunity,” he added.
Faith has played a central role in Brock’s college life, guiding his growth and shaping him into the person he has become. Brock reflected, “Coming into college, I considered myself a Christian, but I wasn’t living a Christian life or fully experiencing a relationship with Jesus. Over the years, I was introduced and put into situations that helped me grow my faith and truly experience the joy of Jesus.”
Looking ahead, Brock hopes the legacy he leaves behind after graduation is defined by faith and leadership. “I want to be remembered as a man who loved Jesus, loved others, and served wherever I could,” Brock voiced. “I want the fruits that I bear to be visible to all and reflect the love of Jesus that I have experienced.” Entering his senior year, Brock is focused on trusting the Lord’s plan. “I have learned that I need to trust God and His plans for my life and enjoy the opportunities He places in front of me,” he shared.
As his athletic career comes to a close, Brock hopes to give everything he has on the field. “I want to have a successful end to my football career.” Both on and off the field, his leadership roles have helped him grow in every aspect of life, shaping him into the leader, athlete, and Christ-follower he is today.
Photo by: Maddy Hada