Life as a Matador

The Busy Life of a Miramonte High School Senior, with Carson Blair

Life as a Matador: The Busy Life of a Miramonte High School Senior, with Carson Blair
October 2025
By: Katie Sproul, Orinda Living Magazine
Photos by Jessamyn Photography
Styled by Stephanie Brown, SB Styles

For 17-year-old Carson Blair, Orinda has always been home. Growing up with two older brothers, Rigby (22) and Nick (19), and their dog, Bruno, Carson learned early on what it means to be part of a close-knit family. His parents are his biggest cheerleaders, setting the example of hard work while also knowing when to keep things light.

"My mom and dad know the right time to keep things relaxed and fun or when to inspire me," Carson says. "We have a lot of laughs, especially when we're all together with my brothers."

It's a family that has always valued both teamwork and individuality - qualities Carson has carried with him into his life as a student-athlete at Miramonte High School.

Friday Night Lights
Carson's football journey is filled with memorable moments, but none stand out more than the 2024 season, when he played alongside his older brother Nick, then a senior captain. Together, they helped Miramonte to its first North Coast Section Championship in a decade.

"Playing with Nick all season and winning that championship was incredible," Carson recalls. "We both knew how lucky we were to have that experience on the same team." With guidance from his older brother and the support of his close-knit teammates, Carson has been well prepared to step into a leadership role on the team.

Along with 13 fellow returning seniors, Carson is gearing up for one last season under the Friday night lights at Miramonte. "We are a very united team and class, and we can't wait to compete for our final season in high school." The big game they circle every year? The long-standing hometown rivalry against Campolindo. It's the kind of matchup that gets the entire community buzzing, and Carson thrives on the energy that brings.

Still, for Carson, football is about more than just stats or games. It's about being with his friends, and all the life lessons the sport and his coaches teach the whole team. "It's hard work, but we are all in it together. There are lots of struggles along the way, but we keep each other motivated and when the hard work pays off, there is no better feeling," he says. "That's the feeling that keeps us all pushing forward. We have been working hard all spring and summer and I can't wait to get our senior year started."

In the Classroom and Beyond the Field
As much as Carson is focused on football, he's just as passionate about Miramonte and its inspiring teachers and staff. "It is a school where students feel comfortable being themselves and it is clear the faculty really care about us." Carson credits Ben Campopiano, the principal, with growing the strong spirit at the high school and putting the students and teachers first. "Mr. Campopiano is the greatest principal and Miramonte has thrived under his leadership." Carson has also found a particular love for history thanks to teachers like Xavier Frippiat, who set high expectations but inspire students to rise to the challenge.

Carson has also dedicated himself to working as a reporter and is now one of the editors for The Mirador, Miramonte's school newspaper, where he helps produce stories that spotlight his classmates' talents. "I think The Mirador and its broadcast help contribute to Miramonte's school spirit, which I love being a part of. It keeps our student body, alumni and families tuned into what's going on around campus," he explains.

Carson's curiosity extends well beyond school and sports. One of Carson's friends and teammates, Charlie Hwang, introduced him to volunteering with International Vision Volunteers, an organization founded by Charlie's parents. The group provides surgical and vision care in Zambia, and Carson's involvement has opened his eyes to the power of medicine.

He learned to sterilize equipment, assist with patient care, and even conduct vision screenings at the clinic in Zambia. "It had a big impact on me," he says. "Even having a small amount of specialized knowledge allowed me to help people."

The experience not only sparked an interest in healthcare but also showed Carson what it means to make a tangible difference in someone's life. It's why, when asked about his dreams for the future, he talks about exploring medicine in college. "Now I've seen what it means to have a job where you can directly assist people and be someone that others depend on," he says.

Closer to home, Carson gives back through Athletes for Action, a student-led club at Miramonte that partners with service organizations. Recently, they worked with Grateful Gatherings, a nonprofit that furnishes homes for families transitioning out of homelessness. For Carson, it's another way to strengthen the community that has given him so much.

Life Outside the Jersey
When he's not on the football field or editing broadcasts, Carson is just like any other teenager trying to savor the moments of senior year. He looks forward to traditions like Senior Sunset and Senior Ball, and can often be found at Nation's in Orinda with friends after games - a longtime hangout spot for Miramonte students.

This summer, his favorite memories were hanging out with this friends and playing football on the beach with his brothers, which they have been doing his whole life. "Those are perfect days," he said.

Looking Ahead
As Carson steps into his senior year, he does so with gratitude - for his family, his teammates, his school, and his community. He's excited for the big games and the senior traditions, but he's equally focused on preparing for the future, wherever that takes him.

"I hope to attend a great college and explore studying medicine or something in that field," he says. "One of my dreams is to ultimately have a job where I can directly help people and be part of a community in that way."

When asked what he would want people to learn from his story, Carson replied, "we live in such an incredible community with so many opportunities to learn and try new things. I feel very fortunate and thankful for being able to grow up in Orinda." He credits the support of his community, family, and teammates for his ability to explore many different passions and pursue opportunities with confidence.

A Multi-Faceted Individual
Quarterback. Student. Volunteer. Little brother. Future doctor, maybe. Carson Blair wears lots of hats, and he wears them well.

As Miramonte's 70th football season gets underway, one thing is certain: our community will be watching Carson and cheering on Miramonte Football and the rest of the Class of 2026 every step of the way. Go Mats!

For access to more stories like this, check out Orinda Living Magazine!

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Players Mentioned

#1 Charlie Hwang: RB, MLB; 5' 8"; Senior

#2 Carson Blair: QB; 6' 0"; Senior

Players Mentioned

#1 Charlie Hwang
: 5' 8"; Senior
: RB, MLB

#2 Carson Blair
: 6' 0"; Senior
: QB

Players Mentioned

#1 Charlie Hwang

#2 Carson Blair

Players Mentioned

#1 Charlie Hwang

#2 Carson Blair

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