Carroll College Athletics

Sr. Carol Ann “Annie” Wirtz had been a four-year starter and a member of two Class C basketball championships at Outlook High School. A 5’9” forward, her freshman year on the Hilltop she helped the 1979-80 Lady Saints to the program’s first Conference title. During her career at Carroll, Wirtz ranked among their leading scorers, but earned her reputation as a defensive ace (usually guarding the opposition’s best player, regardless of position) and a determined rebounder. Her teammates credited her for qualities which defy statistical measurement: selfless character, leadership, and determination in the face of adversity. 

A 3-year starter, she appeared in 104 contests over career, averaging 5.6 points and 5.0 boards per game. Annie’s best campaign was her junior year, when she posted scoring and rebounding averages of 9 ppg and 6 rpg. During one 5-game stretch in early 1981, she tallied 71 points for a 14.2 average. She achieved a career effort in the win over Rocky, firing in a PR 18 counters, with 9 boards and 6 assists, while earning the Frontier’s Player of the Week. As a senior, Sr Wirtz was the charter recipient of the Cathy Wallace MVP Award.