Q&A With Matt Walters
April 4, 2002
Matt Walters
Defensive Lineman
6-5, 263, Senior
Melbourne, Florida
(Eau Gallie HS)
Matt Walters has developed into one of the best lineman in the BIG EAST. He led all defensive linemen last year in tackles (66). Walters produced one of the most memorable plays of 2001 when he intercepeted a deflected pass in the closing seconds against Boston College, keeping Miami’s Rose Bowl dreams alive.
Walters, majoring in mechanical engineering, is also an excellent scholar who has balanced the demands of an 18-hour course load while playing football. He was the recipient of the 2001 Dale Melching Leadership Award, presented annually by the team to the player who represents all the qualities of leadership and work ethic they admire most. Here is a closer look at the Hurricane defensive lineman.
What are your short-term goals for your career at the University of Miami?Especially my senior year, I just want to be a dominant player.
What do you plan to do with your education?I would like to work for a race team someday, one of the Nascar teams on the Winston Cup circuit. I would like to build engines.
What has been your best experience at Miami?Probably winning the Rose Bowl last year for the National Championship.
What was the last movie you saw?The Count of Monte Cristo. It was a good movie too.
What are your favorite hobbies outside of football?Fishing and golf, definitely fishing and golf.
What is something people would be surprised to know about you?That I am halfway crazy when I am not in a controlled environment. I mean that I like doing things like the X-Games, jumping off bridges and parachuting.
Who is your role model (athletic or otherwise)?I would say my dad.
When was the last time you were amazed by one of your accomplishments?My very first play as a University of Miami Hurricane four years ago I almost had a sack in the Kick-Off Classic. I missed the sack but I had a great pass rush and I beat the guy on my very first collegiate play. I was pretty amazed that on my first play I was able to do that.
