Carson Hocevar’s NASCAR journey influenced by his father began in Portage, Michigan, where Scott Hocevar’s collectibles shop laid the foundation for Carson’s racing success. As Carson has gained recognition on the national circuit, the family’s longtime business and Scott’s hands-on support shaped every step of his path to NASCAR prominence.
The Hocevar Family’s Store: A Community Fixture and Training Ground
Scott Hocevar, alongside his wife Amy Hocevar, has operated Scott’s Sports Cards, Coins & Jewelry in Portage for decades, serving collectors and hobbyists across Southwest Michigan. Since opening in 1986 and later relocating to Portage in 1992, the shop has grown to specialize in gold, silver, rare coins, estate jewelry, and sports memorabilia, establishing its reputation as a community institution.
Beyond retail, the Hocevars handle repairs, evaluations, and source rare collectibles, building one of the region’s largest specialty selections. Expert employees, known for their knowledge of vintage baseball cards, Civil War coinage, and rare watches, contribute to the store’s status as a gathering place for experts and enthusiasts. The teamwork and discipline found in this family-run business would inform practices later seen in Carson’s racing pursuits.
Scott Hocevar’s Influence on Carson’s Racing Path
While running the thriving store, Scott was instrumental in guiding his son toward motorsport. He purchased Carson his first Quarter Midget, initiating a whirlwind schedule in youth racing that soon had them traveling nationwide for competitions nearly every weekend of the year.
Scott immersed himself in the local racing community by working as a crew member for several teams, including contributing alongside the late Bryan Clauson. This firsthand experience gave Scott insights into the grit and precision required in racing, knowledge he translated into mentorship as he took on the role of team owner for Carson’s move up to late-model stock cars.
Mentorship, Sponsorship, and the Step Up to NASCAR
One of Scott’s most significant contributions came from his prior sponsorship of NASCAR veteran Johnny Benson Jr. This relationship introduced Benson as a mentor, crew chief, and driver coach for Carson during his first season in the Outlaw Late Model division at Berlin Raceway. Thanks to these ties, Carson benefitted from both professional guidance and experienced eyes on his development behind the wheel.
Scott further ensured Carson’s progress by sponsoring the racing team and putting key resources in place as Carson transitioned from karting to stock cars. Even as Carson’s achievements took him to the national stage, including a move to the NASCAR Truck Series, Scott remained an influential but quieter force behind the scenes, respectful of his son’s growing career.
Carson Hocevar’s Accomplishments and Continuing Journey
In 2024, Carson Hocevar secured the NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of The Year award, competing full-time in the No. 77 chevrolet/”>Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports. Such milestones are rooted in a partnership between a dedicated father and son—one in which the support of family, the guidance of mentors like Johnny Benson Jr., and the collaborative spirit honed at their collectibles store have all played crucial roles.
The journey of the Hocevar family demonstrates how commitment, expertise, and supportive relationships can propel talent to national prominence. Their story stands as one of NASCAR’s most inspiring recent chapters, showcasing the lasting impact of family foundations, community connections, and unwavering encouragement on the sport’s next generation.
