Since being diagnosed in March 2008, Matthew has enjoyed a remarkable run of sporting achievement.
He started the year by running in the Nottingham marathon fun run and raised a considerable amount of sponsorship for Diabetes UK.
Far from being just a talented long distance runner, Matthew has competed for his school in basketball, football and athletics. Matthew is currently in year 9 and has competed, not only, within his own age group but in older age groups too.
Basketball captain
Matthew captained his team to win the Nottingham boys year 9 basketball finals. Outside of school, he plays for Rushcliffe Jets basketball club at under 14 and under 16 levels, and was voted the under 14 Player of the Year.
He competed at National league level for the Nottingham Nova County under 14s, against other cities and counties across the East Midlands, picking up the under 14s Player of the Year award. He also won the Nova Commitment award, in April, for his dedication to his sport (he was the only player in his squad to play in all their games) and overcoming his diabetes.
Rapid run of success
Recently, Matthew won the Nottingham City year 9 100m sprint title by completing the distance in just 12.6 seconds.
He has begun to train with Notts Athletics Club and has won both his guest races at 100m and 200m at a Notts Open Mini-league event. He is looking forward to joining the club in the future.
Personality of the year
Matthew's proudest achievement was being awarded Sports Personality of the Year at his school's sports awards evening. Matthew was deemed the individual who contributed most to school sport in terms of participation, representation at county level, dedication to training, leading by example and making a difference in competitive events.
As if this wasn’t enough, Matthew’s also tried his hand at skiing with his school, during the Easter holidays, and had a brilliant time doing so.
Support for his diabetes
The Nottingham Emmanuel School have been fantastically supportive in everything he does; encouraging his participation in sport and taking him on overseas residentials to France and Austria.
Matthew has kept really good control of his diabetes - he maintained an average HbA1c of 6.7 over the year.
He loves sport and has not let diabetes stop his enjoyment. His family and friends are really proud of him and how much he has achieved this year. Matthew has a great attitude to his condition and has certainly not let it stop him being a remarkable teenager.
Your comments
Its good to see other diabetic guys doing well in athletics. although my Hb1c level is not as good as mathews its generally around 8 i have managed to win the cambridgeshire county athletics championships in long jump and 100 meters with my 100 meter time of 11.7 seconds in year 9. Its good to know there are other diabetics out there in athletics :) good luck in the future.
- Jake
As Matthew's Grandparents we are both very proud of the way Matt has handled his diabetes. We send him all our love and good wishes for the future. Well done Matthew. - Nan & Grandad