Colby Carthel

Colby Carthel became the 19th head football coach in A&M-Commerce history on January 22. A born motivator and all-around talented coach, he brings over a decade of coaching experience and a family legacy of excellence into his new role.

Who is Colby Carthel?

A native of Friona, TX, Carthel graduated from Angelo State in 2000 with a degree in biology and he completed his master's degree in interdisciplinary studies from West Texas A&M in 2007. Carthel is married to the former Sarah Butler, one of the top volleyball players in Division II history and the current assistant coach for the nationally-ranked Lady Buffs.

Where are Carthel's strengths?

He earned a reputation as one of the top recruiters in the region as he has personally recruited or coached 13 players at the Division II level that have gone on to careers in the National Football League. Carthel's players have not only excelled on the playing field but in the classroom; seven of his Buffs earned Academic All-Lone Star Conference honors.  Carthel's motivational attitude and wealth of experience make him a great bet for brighter seasons ahead.

What is his legacy?

His father, Don, is the head football coach at West Texas A&M and the duo coached side-by-side for 11 seasons, beginning at Abilene Christian in 2000. Carthel spent the last seven seasons as the defensive coordinator at West Texas A&M and played a key role in establishing the Buffs as one of the top teams in the region.