The "Journey" begins for Matt . . . .

Matt loves basketball! He has been blessed with height (6'7")and physical and mental talent for the game of basketball. He works very hard at perfecting his game. He is an eager student of the game! I say all that to say big things are happening for Matt! A couple of weeks ago he went to Indianapolis at the invitation of Nike.com to play for one of their teams. Matt was asked to play on a team for Nike.com. He will play out of Indianapolis and his games will be in Indy, Louisville, Charlotte, NC and Portland, OR. Nike will be paying all of his expenses! This will start after his school season ends.

Matt tried out and made the 8th grade Monticello team. He has started with practices and his first game is Sat, November 1st.


Last weekend Matt was in Ft. Wayne getting to play with his new teammates from Nike.com. This is all so new and he said the level of competition is fierce.


We are all learning as Matt goes another step how all this works. He got a letter from the Valparaiso coach about watching him. The biggest thrill has been that the Illini have spoken with him but they have all kinds of NCAA regs that have to be followed on both sides so he is being careful. Rod, Marlin and Matt did go to an Illini basketball practice and Matt was able to talk with players and coaches. The three of them then joined some of the team and Coach Bruce Weber for an Illini football game. Matt got a note from Coach Weber that he would be watching him the next few years but he wouldn't be able to contact him again until after his sophomore year. (I think I have that right). The guys had a blast at the game . .Dad got a kick out of being driven to the game in a golf cart and right into the stadium. How much fun for all of them and the Illini won!


Here are a few pics of Matt and Coach Weber. Matt we are proud of you and hope you have an awesome 8th grade season - Aunt Nancy