Thursday, January 6, 2022
It was my pleasure and honor to have known Matthew since he was 8 years old. Matthew played youth football for me and other coaches who absolutely loved coaching Matthew. Matthew never complained, always gave 110%, always supported and encouraged his fellow teammates and would be the kid who helped an opposing player up off the ground. We had a team rule, no loud fluorescent colored socks or cleats, Matthew showed up to practice one day wearing the brightest yellow cleats you could find. I said "Matthew, what's with the cleats?" Matthew replied, "Well coach, I want my parents to be able to easily find me on the field. But I'll take them back if you want me to." Needless to say Matthew had a brand new pair of bright yellow cleats every year. Matthew will never be forgotten, always had a smile on his face and a kind soul. Matthew wore #56 every year in football, we were able to locate his old jersey for him and gave to him last year. If you knew Matthew and you're watching a football game and you happened to see the #56 being worn, do me a favor and think of Matthew, a Warrior forever. God bless you Matthew. -Coach Anderson
