Carthage lacrosse coach Kirk Ventiquattro has built one of the most respected high school lacrosse programs in New York State. With over two decades of sustained excellence, his career is a testament to dedication, leadership, and a deep passion for the game. As he enters his 23rd season at the helm, his impact is undeniable — not just in the win column, but in the lives he’s shaped along the way.

Building a Program from the Ground Up

In 1988, Kirk Ventiquattro introduced lacrosse to Carthage High School. At the time, it was a bold move for a small-town school in Upstate New York. But what followed would become a legacy. Over the course of his career, Coach Ventiquattro has amassed an incredible 354-92 record—a remarkable 80% win rate — while leading the Comets to 17 league championships.

Fourteen of those seasons were undefeated within the competitive Frontier League. Under his guidance, the Comets have also claimed six Section 3 Class B titles, making Carthage a perennial power in the region.

Sustained Success and a Culture of Winning

Last season, the Comets finished 13-4, stretching their unbeaten league streak to an astounding 53 games. This consistency is no accident. Coach Ventiquattro credits the program’s success to a combination of strong team chemistry, a committed coaching staff, and unwavering community support.

The Carthage community has rallied around its team for decades, and in return, Coach Ventiquattro has delivered a program that reflects pride, discipline, and excellence. His ability to mold players into both athletes and leaders is part of what makes his legacy so enduring.

Producing Champions and Collegiate Stars

One of the hallmarks of Kirk Ventiquattro’s tenure has been his uncanny ability to develop elite-level talent. His program has produced dozens of Division I athletes, All-Americans, and even national champions. Perhaps most famously, he coached the legendary Powell brothers — Casey, Ryan, and Mike — who went on to redefine the game of lacrosse at the collegiate and professional levels.

More than 30 former Comets have continued their lacrosse careers at Division I programs, including Syracuse, Ohio State, UMass, and Cortland. His impact on the lacrosse world extends far beyond Carthage, as his coaching tree and player legacy continue to influence the game nationwide.

Recognized by His Peers

Coach Ventiquattro’s excellence has not gone unnoticed. He has been named Frontier League Coach of the Year twelve times and was honored as Section 3 Coach of the Year in 1997. In 2008, he shared All-CNY Coach of the Year honors with another Upstate coaching icon, Mike Messere of West Genesee.

These accolades reflect not just wins and losses, but the respect he commands from colleagues, competitors, and the broader lacrosse community.

A Family Committed to Lacrosse

Kirk’s passion for the game runs in the family. His wife, Carelita, an elementary school teacher, has supported the program from the beginning. Their two sons, Tony and Mario, followed in their father’s footsteps and played collegiate lacrosse — Tony at UMass and Cortland, and Mario at Ohio State.

A Hall of Fame Career

With over two decades of excellence, hundreds of victories, and a growing legacy of players and coaches he has mentored, Carthage lacrosse coach Kirk Ventiquattro has earned his place in the Hall of Fame. His contribution to the sport and to the Upstate New York lacrosse community is immeasurable—and ongoing.