Student athletes in Carthage will enjoy prominent, roadside recognition during their sports seasons thanks to a combined effort of local businesses and organizations.
The Carthage Rotary Club and Booster Club announced on Wednesday the unveiling of Carthage spirit signs, which will adorn the yards of Carthage High School athletes throughout their respective regular seasons.
“I think it’s a great way of raising team pride in the community,” said Jerry Poston, father of Carthage senior football player Brian Poston. “This is just another way to raise pride in the football team, and in all of our teams.”
The signs were created through a joint effort between the Boosters, the Rotary, and two local businesses. The Boosters, according to board member Chuck Bryant, introduced the idea, and the Rotarians got the ball rolling with a $1,000 donation to help cover costs.
Lowe’s of Carthage provided and cut the lumber for the signs at a reduced price, and also donated all the hardware.
And Orbit Products Co. donated the paint, the facility and the labor involved in painting the signs, as well.
“It’s nice that they’re behind the athletes,” said Booster board member Nathan Terry. “It’s the athletes they’re supporting through us. In a lot of towns a project like this wouldn’t even get off the ground.”
In total, the Boosters engineered about 250 signs for the effort. Each sign is painted in Carthage blue and features a large “C.” At the bottom of the sign, on a removable placard, is the student’s last name and a logo denoting what sport he or she plays.
Bryant said the Boosters prepare the nameplates in advance, and the signs will be used throughout the year for all high school sports. Once fall sports end, the signs will be returned to the Boosters, who will then distribute them to winter athletes.
“This is a great way to recognize our athletes,” said Rotary Club President Jon Nicholas. “We’re really excited about all the teams playing this year.”
