The Carr family has a rich legacy in football, deeply rooted in their ties to the University of Michigan. Former Saline High School quarterback CJ Carr is currently making headlines as the starting quarterback for Notre Dame. This season, he has led the Fighting Irish to a noteworthy 9-2 record, positioning the team for a potential College Football Playoff berth.
CJ and Tommy Carr Follow Family Traditions
CJ’s younger brother, Tommy Carr, recently completed his senior year at Saline and has committed to Michigan, fulfilling a lifelong dream. The Carr family’s ties to Michigan run deep. Their parents, Jason and Tammi Carr, both graduated from Michigan, with Jason winning accolades as a quarterback. Additionally, their grandfather, Lloyd Carr, served as the head coach for 13 remarkable seasons, while Tammi’s father, Tom Curtis, was an All-American safety.
For the Carr family, football Saturdays were cherished events. However, their youngest brother, Chad, had a different perspective. While CJ and Tommy root for Michigan, Chad often picked the opposing team to cheer on.
Remembering Chad’s Spirit
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Chad’s passing at age 5 due to pediatric brain cancer. To commemorate this significant milestone, CJ wrote a touching letter for The Player’s Tribune, filled with fond memories of his late brother. “He absolutely loved to troll us and cheer for literally anyone BUT Michigan,” CJ recalled about their playful rivalries during the fall afternoons.
- Chad’s Unique Personality: Unlike his sports-oriented siblings, Chad preferred exploring nature and making others laugh.
- Pet Companion: The family welcomed a mini-labradoodle named Tootie to keep Chad company, reflecting his playful spirit.
CJ added that Chad had a special knack for humor, recounting how he would chase his brothers with bugs and make them laugh. The bond they shared extended beyond childhood play, shaping their family experiences during a challenging time.
Creating a Lasting Legacy
After Chad’s death, the Carr family established the ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation. This charity aims to fund research in pediatric brain cancer and provide support to families facing similar battles. CJ continues to be inspired by Chad, often reflecting on their time together.
“Chad faced his challenges with a smile,” CJ stated. “His courage inspires me to push through my own difficulties.” His determination is evident this season, ranking 15th nationally with 21 passing touchdowns, showcasing his talent on the field.
A Message of Resilience
CJ recognizes the value of an unexpected choice in life, which he attributes to the lessons learned from Chad. “He taught us to embrace unpredictability and to forge our own paths,” he observed. This perspective influenced CJ’s decision to attend Notre Dame instead of following family tradition at Michigan, a choice he knows Chad would have applauded.
The Carr family’s story is a poignant reminder of love, loss, and the enduring strength of family bonds. Through their shared memories and established foundation, the Carrs honor Chad’s memory while leaving a profound impact on their community.
