School Directory | Avon Old Farms | Boys Boarding High School in CT

Carl Stensland, a Connecticut native from Mansfield, has been passionate about soccer since the age of four. After a decade with Oakwood Soccer Club, he played Division I soccer at Quinnipiac before transferring to Eastern Connecticut State University, where he completed his biology degree. Following graduation, Carl pursued his twin passions for teaching and coaching—working as an assistant soccer coach at Eastern, tutoring math and science at E.O. Smith High School, and coaching youth soccer. Encouraged by a friend to explore boarding schools where he could combine his interests in one community, Carl began his career at Mercersburg Academy in Pennsylvania. There, he taught math and science, coached soccer, and served as a dormitory dean for four years. In 2020, Carl joined Avon Old Farms as head varsity soccer coach and a math and science teacher. On the field, he emphasizes practices that are both competitive and fun, aiming to instill in his players the same lifelong love for the game that shaped his own journey. In the classroom, he finds fulfillment in helping students approach challenges from new perspectives until they achieve understanding. Reflecting on his decision to come to Avon, Carl was struck by the brotherhood and “one team” spirit that extends beyond athletics to the entire community of 400 boys. For him, the opportunity to build relationships both in and out of the classroom is the most rewarding part of life at Avon.