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Mark Matthews is a freshman student from Oshowa, Ontario. He was a member of the Canadian National team. Matthews is second on the team with 19 goals and eight assists. He aspires to be an all-american by the time he graduates from the University of Denver.
Zac D’Argonne: What does it mean to you to be a freshman on the DU lacrosse team?Mark Matthews: It means a lot to me to be a part of this team. We have a great group of guys and it’s been awesome being a part of this crew.
ZD: Were you looking at any other schools than DU for sports? MM: I was looking at other schools besides DU for lacrosse and for hockey. I was looking at North Carolina, Hofstra and Maryland.
ZD: How do you fit in with the guys on the team, how do they treat you?MM: The guys have been great so far. I fit in really well with everyone and they treat me like I’ve been here for years. They are an amazing group.
ZD: It is difficult balancing the life of an athlete especially as a freshman?MM: It can definitely be challenging at times, but DU has a great support staff that really helps to prepare you for what comes along. It is tough balancing a full class load, while preparing for some of the toughest competition in the country on the field, but my teammates have really helped me figure it all out.
ZD: What is the most memorable moment this year on the Lacrosse team?MM: I went to a Colorado Mammoth game this past Saturday after our game against Notre Dame with a bunch of my teammates and we had a great time. It gave us a chance to all enjoy a game together and bond even more.
ZD: What do you hope to accomplish your four years with DU lacrosse?MM: I am looking forward to getting a great education here at DU and to graduate with a degree. I would also like to get drafted into the pro league once I’m done.
ZD: How do you explain your early success with the team?MM: I definitely wasn’t expecting to have such a great impact so early. I was not even expecting to start, but I worked really hard and earned my spot in the line-up and it has just been great. I’ve gotten progressively better each game and the guys are helping me out along the way.