NAME: Matt Petersen

POSITION: Pitcher, Catcher, Outfielder

YEARS PLAYING: 4

UNIFORM NUMBER: 0

PREVIOUS TEAMS: Ward Softball

FAVORITE MLB TEAM: LA Angels.  I have been a fan since I was in my teens.  My brother lived in Irvine and was a fan so I started rooting for them.  My wife's name is Angel, so that has sealed the deal on my favorite baseball team.

FAVORITE MLB PLAYER: Jim Abbott.  He pitched for the Angel's for a while.  He only has one arm (his left arm) and overcame adversity to be a very good pitcher in the majors.

GREATEST MOMENT IN BASEBALL (early years): One of my first memories was when we had just moved to a new neighborhood and most of the kids in the ward were pretty athletic.  They decided to put me in Right Field since they didn't know what I would do.  One of the first hits of the game came sailing out to right field, and I made the catch.

GREATEST MOMENT IN BASEBALL (recent): But an even greater moment for me was assistant coaching this year and being a part of the championship game.  It was a thrill for me to share  in that with my son and with the other boys on the team.

MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT IN BASEBALL: I can't remember the bad moments from that long ago.  I'm sure I had my share, probably either throwing to the wrong position, or something.

FAVORITE DREAM MOMENT IN BASEBALL: Hitting the go ahead run to win the game, a walk off homer would be even better, but I'd be happy just hitting the winning run in.

HOBBIES: Golf, Backpacking, Camping, Wood Working.

FAVORITE ICE CREAM: Bubble Gum, Mint Chocolate Chip, Cherry Vanilla, Orange Vanilla, etc.

FUTURE CAREER: I don't know yet.  Probably something in construction.

How has playing baseball made you a better person? Helped me to be a team player, which has helped in life.  I ran a lot growing up and love golf (both more of individual sports) but baseball/softball helps you to be more selfless, hoping for a teammate to get a hit, or make a good throw etc..

What is the most challenging part about playing baseball? Not getting down on self and team mates if/when mistakes are made.  Keeping positive no matter what the outcome.

What is the best thing a coach has either told you or said about you? Never get discouraged.

What other information would you like to share about yourself? I just enjoy the game of baseball.  Some people think it is boring to watch on T.V. (of course it is usually funner to be at the ball park) but I can sit down and watch just about any game and enjoy it (when I have time).  I have had a great time being involved with my kids in their baseball endeavors and look forward to many more years of involvement.

FAVORITE QUOTE OR SAYINGS: “Don’t give up what you want most for what you want now!”