Athlete of the Week: Mason Mathis, CFCA football

Trailing to the visiting Marco Island Academy, the Central Florida Christian Academy Eagles needed a touchdown in the waning moments of the fourth quarter to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. 

Enter sophomore Mason Mathis.

The transfer QB from The First Academy made key plays for the CFCA offense’s game-winning march down the length of the field, including the biggest play of the night. 

After leading the Eagles to the Marco Island 30-yard line, Mathis took the shotgun snap and rolled to his left, as a fever of Rays defenders were clipping at his heels. As a Marco Island defender dived at his feet, Mathis jumped to avoid him while throwing the ball across his body to find receiver Hunter Mattsson for the 29-yard gain that set up the game-winning TD run. 

The win marks CFCA’s first under second-year coach Kevin Blackman and the program’s first since the 2021 season.

THE BASICS

Age: 16

Sport: Football

Grade: Sophomore

School: Central Florida Christian Academy

Q&A

How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week? 

I am very honored to be given this (honor), and I just want to give all the glory to God, because if it wasn’t for Him, I wouldn’t be here right now.

What did it feel like to lead the game-winning drive against Marco Island? 

It felt great leading the team to that win. I really felt calm, and knowing God was with me, I just knew we were going to go down and score.

What do you like the most about football? 

Being part of a team where we build (one another up) on and off the field.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from football? 

Learning to push through, even when things are hard. 

Who is your favorite athlete? 

My favorite all-time athlete is Johnny Manziel, I hands-down try to model my game after Money Manziel!

Favorite football memory? 

My favorite football memory is when I won a 7-on-7 National Championship with my team, 24K!

What is your go-to pre-game hype song? 

Honestly, I don’t have one. I like to be focused and get hyped with my teammates.

What is your favorite subject in school?

I like math, because for some reason, it has always come easy to me.

What is your favorite movie? 

“Despicable Me,” because it is so funny, and I like humor.

If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?

Martin Luther King Jr., because I think it would be interesting to ask him about his iconic moments like the “I Have a Dream” speech. He is a shining example of how one person can stand up for his beliefs and make a change.

If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?

Medieval times with the kings, queens and knights. It would be cool to attend the tournaments and check out the castles.

Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self? 

Surround yourself with friends who have the same mindset and goals as you. Your circle of friends can be empowering.

Who is your favorite superhero?

Spider-Man; his heroic values, such as selflessness and courage, inspire me. He is a regular person who uses his powers for the good of others.

Who is your favorite supervillain?

Gru from “Despicable Me,” because he’s so funny.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I’d want to fly, so I could travel anywhere, at any time.

If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go and why?

Easy: Switzerland to snowboard, ski and go snowmobiling. The Maldives for the tropical vibe, and Thailand to experience all the culture.

Does pineapple belong on pizza?

No, double pepperoni all the way.