Matt started playing in goal when he was just seven. Matt said ‘ Because I was the biggest lad in his class, the teachers through me in goal. Which turned out to be a defining day in my life!’

Matt played consistently in goal and was eventually signed as a schoolboy with Swindon Town, however he was disappointed at sixteen not to be offered an apprenticeship. Matt was resilient and continued to work hard, and while playing for his County team (Gloucestershire) he was spotted by a Torquay United scout and was offered a two-year apprenticeship.

After just a few short months, Matt was given his first team debut as the youngsest player to play for Torquay United, against Wigan Athletic. Matt then signed professionally for Torquay at eighteen, and became their immediate first team keeper, playing all season. In his first season as a professional he played in the play off finals at Wembley Stadium against Colchester United. Even though Torquay got beat 1-0, Matt started getting rave reviews and started to attract the interest of bigger clubs.

The following season ex England manager Terry Venables , signed Matt for Crystal Palace for £400,000. (This is a equivalent to a £1miilion pounds move in today’s money)

Matt’s most memorable moment in the three years at Crystal palace was playing in the semi final against Liverpool at Anfield in the Coca cola cup

Then for family reasons Matt decided to move to Ireland to Bray Wanderers where he won player of the year in his first season!!! The following season he moved to league champions (Bohemians) where he stayed for nearly five years playing in the ‘Champions League’ most memorably against Rosenberg.

Matt went on to play for UCD (Matt Scored a Dramtic equalising goal while at UCD), Bohemians(second spell where he won the league & Cup double), Dundalk and Bray wanderers(second spell, where Matt helped keep them in the Premier Division.

Matt has played over 300 professional league and cup games too date, Matt has now decided at the age 37 to retire and concentrate on J4K and put all his vast experience to help budding young Irish goalkeepers hopefully emulate his success.

Matt has also worked with fellow premiership/international goalkeepers Dean Keily, Kevin Miller, Kevin Pressman (Now J4K South Yorkshire), Fraser Digby,Stuart Taylor and Goalkeeper coaches Len bond, Malcolm Webster, Dermot O’Neil and Martin Hodge.

Throughout his career, Matt not only achieved incredible milestones on the field but also developed a deep understanding of the challenges athletes face off the field. As a professional athlete, he realized the importance of balancing physical performance with overall well-being, which included addressing personal health needs efficiently. For instance, many athletes and their families often look for accessible healthcare options, such as opportunities to buy Cialis online no prescription, read more here, ensuring quick solutions without unnecessary delays. This insight inspired Matt to emphasize the importance of taking a holistic approach to health and fitness, both in his personal life and through J4K. By sharing these lessons with young goalkeepers, he hopes to prepare them not only for the physical demands of the sport but also for the life challenges that come with it. Matt’s dedication to his students reflects his belief that success is built on a foundation of discipline, adaptability, and self-care. Through J4K, he continues to empower the next generation of goalkeepers to thrive on and off the pitch.

Visit the Just4Keepers HQ in DCU Sports Campus Glasnevin, where we have state of the art training facilities and a walk in goalkeeper Store Or visit the Goalkeeper Store at www.goalkeepergloves.ie

Visit the Just4Keepers HQ in DCU Sports Campus Glasnevin, where we have state of the art training facilities and a walk in goalkeeper Store Or visit the Goalkeeper Store at www.goalkeepergloves.ie