BY PETE MOHR | NOVEMBER 10, 2010

Meet the Football Falcon seniors Ö Eric Mattson


Bookmark and Share

eric mattsonEric Mattson will reach legal adulthood come January 19, 2011. He was born in Bristol, Connecticut and came to The Valley when he was eight, entering CCUSD as a DAMS 8th grader. His mother, Sharon Mattson, lives in Rio Verde; his father, Paul Mattson, in Phoenix. Eric’s family includes six brothers (two “full” and four “half”) and one half-sister.

Why have I started Eric Mattson’s senior profile focused upon his 17+ years? Because this young man lives independently in a guest house with his close friend and Creeker classmate Tyler Kirchoff. Hmmm … could I have lived independently at age 17? Are you kidding me?! Eric, I hope you can tell I’m beyond impressed – and “retro” envious!

Mattson played football as a Falcon freshman (LB, RB) and sophomore (DE, RB). Work commitments (he’s currently a busser at Cody’s) were his “position” junior year, returning to football for this, his senior season, as a DE.

Why did he come back? “I love football! Being a Football Falcon means being a part of something bigger … the team … than myself.

Lovin’ to play football: that’s the reason we’re all here, I guess.” He continued, “Football keeps me occupied – and in shape. And playing what I love makes me feel good.”

Eric describes himself as an “average” student. “I’m probably best at math,” he self-evaluates. “Ms. (Diane) Kohl has been huge for me! She’s the best!”

Upon graduation next May, what will he miss most? “Football and my friends,” his immediate answer.

Admiring half-brother Joshua Bramblett, 28, an EMT in the trauma care unit at Phoenix County Hospital, Eric is considering Santa Barbara City College’s nursing program – or becoming a United States Marine. “I like the family aspect of the Marines. They are close-knit – and tough!”

Whatever direction he may choose, I believe this independent young man has already gained the self-confidence to be successful. Good luck, Eric – from a long-ago “Momma’s Boy”!