Matt began golfing at just 7 years old after moving to Cookeville, first spending time on the driving range with his dad at Belle Acres and even working picking up range balls to afford his first set of clubs. His passion grew as he moved to Ironwood and played collegiate golf at Tennessee Tech from 1990–1994. He went on to build his professional career as an assistant golf pro, working at Richland Country Club from 1995 to 2000 before accepting a role at his current club in 2001, where he has remained ever since. He became the head professional at Golden Eagle in 2016. Along the way, he won the 2005 Ironwood Classic (professional division), contributed as an assistant golf professional, and coached an undefeated middle school team in 2013, all while finding the most fulfillment in teaching and helping others learn the game.