Matz signs to play soccer at Mars Hill

Swain senior soccer player Landon Matz will be taking his talents to Mars Hill University in the fall after he participated in a ceremonial signing at Swain County High’s gymnasium on Feb. 7.

Matz told the Smoky Mountain Times he was excited for the future.

“I’m very happy to get the opportunity to play for a local university,” he said. “I can stay close to home. It’s a step up for what I’m used to. But I’m ready for the challenge.”

Coach Scott Cline said Matz had been a diligent hard worker, putting in more time than he had to at times.

“I’ve either coached or watched him play since he was four years old,” Cline said. “He’s put a lot into it. Even in the off season, he’s practicing on his own, he’s in the weight room. He’s put in a lot of time outside the field.”

Cline said Matz was a “very driven athlete and student” and that everyone was excited to see him go on to play at another level soon.

Matz has 100 career goals, a school record, and is the team captain. He has 35 career assists and has been to All Conference Sophomore and All Region Sophomore in both his junior and senior years, and was selected to the BodyArmor State Games the past two years.