Today, CFC shines the spotlight on class 2012 star receiver and recent University of Manitoba commit, Matt LaRiviere. Matt began his football career with the Winnipeg Nomads.
Matt LaRiviere
Positions:
Receiver
Height/Weight:
6’4, 215 lbs
Teams:
Churchill Bulldogs (high school: WHSFL)
Winnipeg Rifles (junior: PFC)
North Winnipeg Nomads
Team Manitoba
Commitment:
Commitment to University of Manitoba
Class:
2012
When he first started out playing football for the North Winnipeg Nomads, Matt was coached by his father. The offensive standout went on to a successful career with his high school team, the Churchill Bulldogs of the Winnipeg High School Football League (WHSFL)
During his time with the Bulldogs, Matt tasted victory as the team won a “AAA” league championship. As a player with the Winnipeg Rifles of the Prairie Football Conference (PFC), the receiver was selected as a league all-star in 2010 and a unanimous selection in 2011.
Moreover, the offensive gun represented his province as a member of Team Manitoba for two years. He was selected to the Football Canada Cup all-star team in 2009.
Matt says that he tries to emulate the playing style of NFL great Calvin Johnson (Detroit Lions) when he takes to the field.
“The way he goes up for the ball and demands a double team is truly amazing and someone I try and pattern my game after,” adds the Bulldogs standout.
Next season, Matt will not have to travel far for university as he has recently committed to the University of Manitoba. He felt comfortable with the campus and all the intangibles it presented him.
“Staying at home was a big factor,” explains the future Bisons player, who plans to study kinesiology at the campus. “Knowing the offense and most of the coaches was also a big factor in my decision, and just the opportunity to play.”
“It was just a perfect fit and I just hope to be a big contributor and help Bisons win another Vanier Cup.”
Many individuals have played a huge role in the motivation and encouragement of Matt in achieving his football and life goals.
“The number one most influential person is definitely my mother as she was diagnosed with kidney failure when I was 13 and she’s my inspiration,” comments the Bulldogs receiver. “Football wise, to list a couple Coach Cory Wauldbauer, Yussef Hawash and my father.”
“Coach Greg Graceffo, the head coach for the Winnipeg Rifles had the biggest impact on me not only in football, but as a person he is like a second father to me and I wouldn’t be the person or player that I am now if it wasn’t for these people.”
As he prepares for the next stage of his football career and academic life, Matt will use the education he’s received on the field for further success down the road.
“Some things that I have learned from football that I can apply in life are commitment, respect and hard work will get you a long way,” says Matt.
Video of Matt’s Football Highlights:
(twitter: http://twitter.com/vohra_ameeta)
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