I received the call this morning at 6:30AM from Matts brother informing me on what had happened to him.  I thought for sure I was still dreaming, and this was just a horrible nightmare.  However, it wasn't long before reality set in and realized that I had lost my very best friend.  For you guys that weren't blessed enough to meet Matt, he was the most amazing person on this earth.  He was a hard worker, he was loyal, he was tough, and he was the best friend a guy could ever ask for.  I have been best friends with Matt ever since the 8th grade and have learned so much from him through out the years.  He cared deeply about everyone and would do anything possible to make his friends and family happy.  I remember like yesterday when I was involved in my car accident three years ago, Matt's voice was the first I heard from my hospital bed when I awoke from surgery.. He had called my hospital room and told me he was coming to visit me and didn't care that he was going to miss his football game on that Saturday.  I had to talk him into staying and playing rather than driving 5 hours to visit me in the hospital.  Thats the kind of guy and friend he was.  He cared deeply about football however it didn't even come close to matching his passion and loyalty for his friends.  Having talked to him two days ago, Matt was very excited about his next opportunity to play football with the Destroyers.  Matt felt good, and was determined to make the team and continue playing the game he so loved!! I'm so sorry that he never got the chance to live out his dream!!  But Matt, I know you are still with me, and I know you have always been one of the few people out there that has always believed in me and thought that I could play beyond college.  I remember like it was just yesterday when we were in high school talking about how it was our goal to play in the NFL together.  Well Pags, I want you to know that I am going to give it everything I possibly have to allow you to live your dream through me.  Everything I do in my life from here out, is dedicated to you big guy!! much love!! Your boy will always have a special place for you in his heart!!