Paul Matzkin

The varsity running back at Aspen High School entering his junior year has high hopes and expectations for the team and himself this upcoming football season. Transferring from Berkeley Prep, Florida, his AHS football debut has been highly anticipated since his arrival last February.

Quinton O’Keeffe: When did you start playing football?

Paul Matzkin: I started playing football when I was four.

QO: How long have you been playing?

PM: For thirteen years.

QO: Do you play any other sports?

PM: Basketball and track.

QO: Are you nervous for the upcoming season?

PM: I wouldn’t say I’m nervous but I’m excited to see how the football team’s hard work will turn out.

QO: What are the team goals for this upcoming season?

PM: I think we’re really focusing on getting used to the new system and coming out with a winning record.

QO: You have a young team this year and only two seniors are playing. The core is built mainly out of Juniors and Sophomores. How confident are you in your team?

PM: We’re definitely young, but we have a very strong bond within the team and it’s for sure going to help out in the long run.

QO: How do you mentally prepare for your games?

PM: I mentally prepare by going through my play book and studying the plays and listening to my pregame playlist.

QO: What are some of your favorite songs on that playlist?

PM: (Laughs) I love me some Waka Flocka.

QO: You have a new coach, Carson Pike. How confident are you his coaching style?

PM: He for sure knows what he’s talking about.

QO: Do you enjoy him?

PM: Yeah so far he’s been a great coach and a great mentor towards the team and everyone looks up to him.

QO: What does the new offense look like?

PM: We’re running a very fast tempo new offense, which is kind of mimicking Oregon’s new offense this year.

QO: Any major differences between your old school (Berkeley Prep, Florida) and Aspen on the field?

PM: I feel like the size difference is obvious. Everyone is a lot smaller here in Aspen but, everyone works just as hard.

QO: Does that play a role in your confidence when you go out on the field knowing you’ve played against bigger, faster, and more athletic players?

PM: Yeah most definitely. I feel more confident playing here knowing that I probably have more experience than the guys on the team.

QO: Do you feel you have anything to prove to anyone?

PM: I’m just trying to prove to myself that I can be the best I can be.