Update: (5/10/09) There are some problems with the between the raw footage and the final version on YouTube, and we had to take the video down. We had some mic problems but are actively trying to work around them.
Update: (5/11/09) Back online… It’s not perfect but better than before.
Driving through East Chicago, Indiana you get a real sense of the American spirit that built this country. From oil refineries, steel mills, and railroad tracks emerges Matthew Page, a big man with an even bigger smile. Page will anchor an impressive offensive line for Team USA at the Junior World Championship this summer in Canton. The 6′6, 300-lb tackle is looking forward to playing for his country and bringing home the gold. “If we lose, there’s no ‘Redeem Team.’ This is it,” he delivered with a big grin.
Already an imposing big man with great athleticism, he is working out and improving his strength and speed. Page will use the opportunity to measure himself against others, as he prepares for Ball State this fall. ”This will be the biggest stage I’ve ever played on. Its a great opportunity to play against the best in the nation and the world.”
His presence and talent is undeniable on the field. But, Page has an even larger presence within the community. AJ Rodriguez, Head Coach East Chicago Central, said that it is a tremendous honor to represent your country, but it is great for the City of East Chicago.
Matt and I talked with him about his football career and family. Page was eager to talk about his teammates, if not himself. We walked through the weight room at EC Central, where several of his teammates were working out. “We spend a lot of time in here,” he gushed. Teammates are as close as family here, as each one congratulated Matthew on his selection to Team USA.
As we were leaving EC Central, students were already buzzing about the Junior World Championship as the posters we had left behind were already being placed throughout the hallways. Matthew Page is bringing pride back to this community, but he would love to bring home the gold.
Previously: Meet Chris Norman, LB
When I learned that the Team USA Road Tour would be heading to East Chicago, IN to interview Matthew Page, I was excited. I grew up in nearby Hammond, IN and was proud that “The Region” would be represented at the Junior World Championship. Page, 6′6, 300-lb offensive lineman has committed to play football at Ball State next season. We’ll be sitting down to interview Matthew this morning, then heading to Chicago to meet with a Team USA player and coach at Mt. Carmel High School.
In 2008, Ball State was ranked in the Top 25 and had a perfect 12-0 regular season. The Cardinals were upset in the 2008 MAC Championship Game against Buffalo and concluded their season with a loss to Tulsa in the 2009 GMAC Bowl to finish 12-2.
Having been on the road for almost three weeks now, it will be great to go home and get some of mom’s home-cooking, and some free laundry service. Matt and I have enjoyed meeting some of Team USA’s players, as well as coaches and look forward to another week on the road.
- Mick
The USA Football Road Tour will be passing through East Chicago, Indiana on this date:
Check back on this post to see where Matt and Mick will be setting up or follow the Road Tour’s Twitter feed: http://www.twitter.com/TeamUSAFootball.
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