5 Super Athletes With Ties To Cartersville

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Cartersville area, these values have shaped some truly remarkable athletes from different eras, whose accomplishments continue to inspire.

Patch has teamed up with T-Mobile to spotlight five standout athletes whose achievements have left a lasting mark on our community. While this list is just a snapshot, there are countless others who have helped shape the rich sports culture in our area.

1. Anna Hightower (Pole Vaulting)

Anna Hightower, a talented pole vaulter and Cartersville native attended Cartersville High School before competing at the collegiate level as a senior at Georgia Tech. Alongside her pole-vaulting achievements, she has immersed herself in campus life through organizations like the Student Alumni Association, Chi Alpha, Christian Campus Fellowship and GT Solar Racing.

2. Ronnie Brown (Football)

A former NFL running back, Ronnie Brown is one of Cartersville’s most celebrated athletes. Known for his powerful rushing style, Brown played college football at Auburn University before being selected second overall in the 2005 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins. His successful professional career included stints with the San Diego Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles and Houston Texans.

3. Trevor Lawrence (Football)

Hailed as one of Cartersville’s most accomplished athletes, quarterback Trevon Lawrence made a name for himself at Cartersville High School, where he became a high school football legend. After a standout college career at Clemson University, where he led the Tigers to a national championship, Lawrence was the first overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars.

4. Sam Howard (Baseball)

Sam Howard, a professional baseball pitcher and Cartersville native has risen through the ranks to establish himself as a key figure in Major League Baseball. Howard’s journey began in Cartersville, where his passion for baseball was first nurtured, and he went on to play collegiately before embarking on a professional career. His connection to his hometown remains strong, serving as a source of pride for the Cartersville community.

5. Peyton Gollhofer (Tennis)

Peyton Gollhofer is a standout tennis player from Cartersville who made a name for herself at the collegiate level. She attended Laurel Springs Academy and went on to compete at Ball State University, where she earned All-Mid-American Conference Second Team honors in her senior year. Gollhofer’s dedication to her sport was strong throughout her academic and athletic journey, showcasing her talent on the court and her connection to her hometown roots.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.