By Erica Sigman
Staff Writer
With athleticism running in his genes, being a strong presence in the water comes naturally to junior two-meter man Morgan Matthies.
Starting his third year with the Pepperdine men’s water polo team, Matthies is ready to take on any challenge, in and out of the pool.
Matthies, a Malibu native, played for four years on the Malibu High School water polo team.
His senior year of high school, he was named Most Valuable Player for both water polo and swimming. For the 1999-2000 school year, Matthies was named “Student Athlete of the Year” and made the Daily News All-Area Team.
While most people want to leave the comforts of their hometown for college, Matthies wanted to stay.
“I grew up around Pepperdine,” Matthies said. “It fits me perfectly.”
Matthies is a familiar name around the Pepperdine campus; Morgan is the oldest son of women’s volleyball coach Nina Matthies.
Being brought up by a parent with a strong volleyball background, it is curious as to why Matthies decided to play water polo.
“My dad played water polo in college,” Matthies said. “He had a huge influence on me. Water polo just came natural.”
While water polo is a large part of his life, Matthies has more to him than a Speedo and hia natural skill in the swimming pool.
“I like to surf and hang out with my friends around the bonfire,” Matthies said.
Matthies loves country music — his favorite artist is Garth Brooks.
When asked what he wanted to do with a double major in physical education and Spanish, he replied with an answer that was unexpected.
“I’d like to pursue a career in law enforcement,” Matthies said. “I just want to get out there and see the world.”
For now, Matthies’ main focus is in the water. He feels confident that the Pepperdine team will have a solid winning record.
“I think USC will be our greatest competition because they didn’t lose anyone,” Matthies said. “They have about 12 guys who can start.”
As far as his goals for the 2003-2004 water polo season, he just wants to do what any other athlete wants to do: win.
September 18, 2003