Game Changers: Incredible Stories of Resilience in Sports
The Game Changers Podcast includes conversations with athletes and coaches exploring the triumphs and tribulations in sports. We uncover the untold stories of glory and defeat and how it defined our guests' journeys. From overcoming setbacks to achieving extraordinary feats, each show will bring the listener inspiring tales of resilience that extends beyond the scoreboard.
Whether it's a comeback from injury, a stunning victory or the lessons learned in defeat, Game Changers is your front row seat to the indomitable human spirit in the arena of sports and performance.
Game Changers: Incredible Stories of Resilience in Sports
Cancer, Chemo and College Football Player Jack Curtis - S3 Episode 18
Jack Curtis was a quarterback at Carleton College who after being diagnosed with cancer in his senior year, refused to step down — but instead chose to lead his team, break records, and fight through adversity with courage and determination.
In June 2025, Jack was diagnosed with late-stage II “unfavorable” Hodgkin's lymphoma. The cancer had spread through his chest and near his heart — a daunting diagnosis for anyone, let alone a college athlete.
Many expected that treatment would sideline his final season. But Jack had a different plan: he returned to the field to start every game. He balanced chemotherapy with rigorous academic work (he’s a physics major), team responsibilities, and demanding game-day performances.
Despite the physical toll — fatigue, uncertainty, limited practice days — Jack threw for over 3,100 yards and 29 touchdowns breaking Carleton College single-season records for completions, completion percentage, and passing yards.
He also tied a conference-wide record (in Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference — MIAC) with seven 300-yard passing games in conference play.
His resilience, on-field excellence, academic dedication, and community service have earned him selection as a semifinalist for the 2025 Gagliardi Trophy — the highest honor in Division III football, awarded annually to the most outstanding student-athlete for excellence in athletics, academics, and service.
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Game Changers. We hope you found inspiration and motivation in the stories of resilience and adversity shared by our incredible guests. Remember, no matter what challenges you face, your ability to overcome them lies within. Stay resilient and keep pushing forward towards your goals. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with others who may benefit from these powerful stories.