Carl Perry

Chief Sports Officer

God used the sport of wrestling to transform Carl’s life, both on and off the mat. For the past 13 years, he has had the privilege of serving the wrestling community by helping individuals grow in their relationship with Jesus. Carl is enthusiastic about continuing this journey and aims to infuse life into sport, one leader at a time. Through SportsLife, he has the opportunity to “coach” some of the most influential leaders in today’s culture. His experience includes serving as the FCA Wrestling Director from 2011 to 2024, as well as holding positions at the University of Illinois, where he was the Associate Head Wrestling Coach from 2009 to 2011 and an Assistant Coach from 2002 to 2008.

He also coached at Yorkville High School in Illinois during the 2001-2002 season. After graduating from the University of Illinois in 2001 with a bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, he earned a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Lincoln Christian University in 2008. His wrestling career includes being a 2000 NCAA Division 1 Champion, a two-time All-American, and ranking in the top 20 for career wins while at the University of Illinois. Originally from Chesapeake, Virginia, he finished his high school wrestling career in 1996 as the all-time winningest wrestler in the state.

He married his wife, Jamie, in 2001, and they have two children: a daughter, Breanna, and a son, Bryce.