Matthew Manns '17 Recruiting Profile

When I was in the 10^th grade I watched my older brother be awarded his national four year, US Marine Corp/Navy ROTC scholarship. That moment became the single most inspiring highlight of my life because I remembered the day he told me how much he wanted that scholarship and then watched how hard he worked to finish number one in our region and earn it. He inspired me.  I told myself and my parents that day that I wanted and would earn an athletic scholarship to compete in track at the next level and I have been preparing and working hard to do so ever since.

I worked hard that year and was the only 10^th grader to make the varsity 4x400m and 4x800m relay teams and compete in the state finals. Watching the seniors, following their lead and guidance, seeing how they represented our team and our school showed me what I needed to do to not only be a good athlete, but also be a good leader. That experience helped me grow as a team mate, team leader and two-time team captain. That experience and that feeling of competing against the best inspired me to work harder in the off season. Confirmed that I wanted to eventually compete at the college level.  

I’ve been blessed to be part of a great team with great coaches and trainers, but I’ve also been blessed to have parents and a brother that are constantly in my corner.  I come from a military family. My Mom and Dad were both in the Army.  My dad is a retired Infantry officer and my mom fought in Desert Storm.  They taught us discipline, respect, hard work, honesty, integrity, being prepared, loyalty, and to “never taking shortcuts” (my dad’s favorite saying).  My family is a perfect fit for me. Now I am praying that I find the right college and track program that will be a good fit morally, academically and athletically.

I am looking for a program that loves to “coach, teach and compete.” Coaches and trainers that can show us new techniques, ways to train and how to become faster and stay healthy.  I am eager to work hard in the classrooms so that I can always compete hard on the track.  I am looking for a program where I can make a difference and be an impact on the team. A program where I can help our team win. I know that I can be a good follower, and a good leader and help our team win.