AFL

In Victoria, arguably more than any other state, Australian Rules Football is a religion. Growing up an ardent Footscray supporter in the days when the AFL was still known as the Victorian Football League, Matt would attend matches at the Western Oval every weekend with his grandma, a diehard supporter who instilled her love of the game in her grandson.

In 2015, Matt joined the AFL commentary team at ABC Grandstand on Radio 774. Priding itself on its comprehensive coverage, the ABC is highly regarded for its expert commentary, ball-by-ball coverage and detailed analysis of the game.

The fast-paced, action-packed nature of the AFL provides a real challenge for a radio broadcaster. There are 36 players on the ground at all times, and a broadcaster must know their names and stats, as well as their key attributes that could see any player have a real impact on the game. The broadcaster also has to be across details about the clubs, coaches, history and more. Calling the game requires great recognition skills, a sense of theatre and passion for the game – skills Matt has in spades, particularly when it comes to fast-moving sports.

Throughout 2015, Matt broadcast almost 30 matches, in particular the major clashes on Saturday evenings alongside popular sports broadcaster Francis Leach. A highlight of a memorable season was calling the Anzac Day clash between Carlton and St Kilda at the famous ‘Cake Tin’ stadium in Wellington, New Zealand.

At the end of the 2015 AFL season, Matt was thrilled to join Irish radio station RTE Radio to co-call the International Rules contest between Australia and Ireland at Croke Park. A fantastic culmination to a successful year of AFL broadcasting.