Sports Interview: Matt Nordgren

Published: April 18, 2007 6:23 PM EST
By: Isaac Joseph Davis Junior
(Juniorscave.com)

Matt Nordgren spent his high school years playing a variety of sports including football in Dallas, Texas at Bishop Lynch High school. He went on to play football at University of Texas for the Longhorns on a full scholarship. One of his earliest biggest accomplishments was when his team won the National Championship against USC. Later, he was picked up by the Detroit Lion; but, only after a week, he decided to leave. This leads us to his current status where he signed a three-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. We recently approached Matt for an on-line interview, and he was more than happy to work with Juniorscave. Here is what we discovered about Matt. I hope you enjoy this great spotlight.

Sports: Could you tell our audience who is Matt Nordgren?
Matt Nordgren: I was born and raised in Dallas Texas, went on to play quarterback at the University of Texas behind 2 NFL starting QB’s. I obtained 2 degrees in 3 ½ years and spent a year on a masters all while at UT. First team was a 2 week tenure with the Detroit Lions then went on to Philly and signed a 3 year contract of which I didn’t spend much time due to injury. I am good catholic man that enjoys being social and spending time with family and friends.

Sports: Have you always been in sports? Did you play sports while growing up?
Matt Nordgren: Yes I started at a very young age and never looked back playing soccer, baseball, football and running track. It is something I found to be vital in learning teamwork and how to develop a leadership role within that team. Sports are a great way to teach kids life lessons.

Sports: What made you decide to play football professionally?
Matt Nordgren: I wanted to test my skills at the next level and prove everyone wrong. When I got to camp with the Philadelphia Eagles, all the media was asking me if I could make the cut even though I backed up Chris Simms and Vince Young for all those years. I told them that I had to face the 1 team defense everyday at practice and half of those guys are starting in the NFL somewhere so it was like playing in a game everyday for me while the first team offense didn’t ever see much resistance except on game days. Also, I threw to Receivers and Running Backs that are stating in the NFL so I had all the confidence in the world. I then went on to sign a 3 year contract with Philly before getting hurt.

Sports: What have been some roadblocks that you have had to overcome?
Matt Nordgren: Arm injuries and playing time were my 2 roadblocks. I had plenty of support and talent, but with injury against me it was a dead end.

Sports: If you were not playing football, what other sports would you love to play professionally?
Matt Nordgren: Basketball or Golf would be the two I would play. I like the idea of having guaranteed contracts as well as less contact and more face time!

Sports: What has been the greatest moment while playing football for you so far?
Matt Nordgren: Being a part of a National Championship team and winning the Rose Bowl game against USC. We had a great group of guys, and represented the greatest state in the country.

Sports: Would you consider yourself a role model to young boys and/or girls?
Matt Nordgren: Yes, and mainly because I have worked hard for everything in my life and I did it the right way. Being a good man and staying honest is as important to me as succeeding itself.

Sports: What message would you like to say to young athletes trying to make it professionally?
Matt Nordgren: Make good decisions. If you are good enough to play, you will get some type of chance to be seen. The guys that make it from there are the ones with a good history and head on their shoulders. There are a lot of great athletes out there but owners and coaches want guys they can trust and feel good about investing money into.

Sports: Describe the support you get from your family, friends and fans?
Matt Nordgren: My parents are the most important people in my life. They provide support and words of wisdom whenever they are needed. It is important to surround oneself with good people.

Sports: What can we expect from you in the next several years?
Matt Nordgren: I am extremely driven to succeed and will do whatever it takes, look for big things to come! I am currently working with Schlegel Sports in Dallas. www.schlegelsports.com

Sports: Thanks for taking the time to conduct this spotlight. I wish you all the great success.

Photo used in this story was provided by Matt Nordgren





Matt's Myspace Account
www.myspace.com/matttx7