Matthew Kelley '28 Recruiting Profile

Hello, my name is Matt Kelley. Wrestling is my passion, one of my lifelong goals is to wrestle in college and at the National level. I have worked hard to make this dream a reality.  As a wrestler, I have wrestled Folk Style for six years.  From the advice of my coaches, I started wrestling Free Style and Greco Roman in 2023, as well as BJJ, to help increase my skills. I have been invited to wrestle with several travel teams and had the opportunity to wrestle on the Missouri GR/FS National team at the 14U duals last season.  When given the challenge, I am always willing to step up.

• Three-time USA Youth Wrestling Missouri State Qualifier, 12U State Champion
• Undefeated 7th and 8th grade seasons
• USA Kids Nationals 2023:  HWT GR 3rd place, HWT Freestyle 5th place
• Missouri USA GR/FS State 2023:  1st place in both
• USA Folkstyle Nationals 2023: 250 2nd place

Being well rounded in academics, community service and sports, makes for a better athlete.  I will be the first one to step up and help if someone needs a hand on the mat, in the classroom, or in public.  Boy Scouts has been a big part of my life.  I have volunteered as a camp counselor for the last two summers and taken The Boy Scouts of America’s National Youth Leadership Training, which was a seven-day camp.  I put the concepts of this training to work every day.  Pulling my own weight is important.  I became a soccer referee to earn money for my future, and as a bonus, got off-season cardio in!  As a camp counselor and referee I have learned how to manage my time and the art of diplomacy. 

Academics are a priority, it would be easy to take the bare minimum, I chose a more challenging path.  I have taken Science and Research, both years, an independent study class, in which you develop a concept and compete in state and local science competitions.  I also participate in band and men's choir. I maintain a GPA over 3.0, and in High School, I am going to strive to stay above a 3.5.

I have a great support system.  Coaches, teachers, leaders, and family have been a huge influence in my life.  They have seen my ups and downs and helped me succeed.  Like them, I know if you select me, I will work hard to make your program better and proud of my accomplishments.

Thank you for your consideration.

Matthew Kelley (Matt)