Fox Valley Association

Each week during the 2014-15 year beginning in late October, the Fox Valley Association will feature two student-athletes (one male and one female) from one of its 10 schools for a "Student-Athlete Spotlight" Q & A segment. The segments will be posted every Tuesday and Thursday and individuals are selected by the school.

Name: Matt Ryan

School: Fond du Lac

Sports: Baseball, Football, Swimming and Diving

Other school clubs/activities: Ignition Mentoring, Class Officer, Key Club, Choir

Parents’ names: Martin and Diane Ryan 

Siblings’ names: Marty

Favorite aspect of your school: I love how a lot of people are involved. We have a great culture at Fondy High with many great traditions and that's what I love most about my school. We have also some of the best facilities and as an athlete I feel like we should take full advantage of that aspect.

Favorite aspect about being involved in school activities: I love meeting new people and giving back to such a great school. I love to see a team put their mind to things and see what a team can accomplish and see the hard work you put in finally pay off. 

If you have been involved in community service projects, which has been most rewarding and why? I believe going to the elementary schools and helping the children that are a little less fortunate and hanging around with them is the most rewarding. The little kids look up to you and I believe its important to set a good example. 

College or post-high school plans: I hope to play football at UW-Whitewater, but if not, I will be going to UW-Milwaukee for Physical therapy or Education.

What is your desired major/career field? I want to study either education or something in healthcare.

What is your favorite class? Leadership

Who is your favorite teacher? Mr. Gnewuch

Favorite book: Harry Potter

Favorite youth coach: Tom Sabel 

What is the best advice one of your coaches has given you? Always work hard and never give up on your goals/dreams that if you want something nothing is given to you that you will need to work for it. Be the hammer not the nail!

Something people would be surprised to know about me is…: I love to sing. I also loved to spend time with friends and go fishing. I am a really good Madden player.

Favorite place to play on the road in the FVA? Appleton North

Favorite athlete to compete against in the FVA: Gabe Heindel, Appleton East

Favorite memory from being involved in co-curricular activities is…: Running in the 90 degree heat with all the football boys

Favorite professional team: Chicago Bears

Favorite professional athlete: Russell Wilson 

Favorite person to follow on Twitter: J.J Watt 

A non-athletic talent I have is…: I can Sing