Although only 6’1-160 pounds, Matthew Haynes of Houston’s Dulles High School had a dream of one day of signing a college basketball scholarship. He refused to listen to any of the “na-sayers”and persevered through a lot of adversity in his senior year.
Ultimately Matthew’s positive attitude and steadfast determination paid off when he signed a scholarship to play basketball and run cross country for Central Christian College (CCU) in Kansas.
Matthew Haynes’ successful scholarship journey is a step-by-step lesson for modern-day student athletes wanting to get a scholarship to play sports in college.
Matt was very aware that at 6’1”, he would be considered small for college basketball. To compensate for his physical shortcomings, Matt diligently worked on his overall knowledge of the game, outside shooting, ball handling, leadership, free throws, play-making, and passing skills.
Additionally, Matthew played another sport, (cross-country) and worked hard to make himself into an outstanding runner, all while maintaining an impeccable academic record. By doing all these things, Matthew made himself much more marketable to college coaches.
“When I first came to evaluate Matt, he didn’t play much. After the game, he apologized to me. I couldn’t believe this! Most kids would have been pouting and/or bad-mouthing the coach. I knew then that Matt had a WINNING attitude. A few games later, he did get to play….and he blew my socks off! His court awareness, ball handling, shooting, passing, and his overall level of basketball knowledge was amazing. I knew then that he had the talent too…and the rest is history!” —Stephen Wiggins, CEO/Founder Student Athlete International (SAI)—
In spite of his set-backs this season, Matt kept a positive outlook on his situation. He continued to do well in the classroom and scored very well on his college placement tests.
“I always came to school and practice ready to work. I pushed myself to the limit EVERYDAY on the court, on the track, and in the classroom. I never let my frustration show outwardly. I used it to drive me to work harder and to earn a spot on the court.”—Matthew Haynes—
On the basketball court, once he got his chance he shined. Matt showed everyone that he should have been playing all year, exploding for back-to-back 20 point games mid-season. His deadly outside shooting, adept ball-handling and precise no-look passing piqued the interest of several college recruiters who were scouting the talent-rich District 23-5A , where two student athletes signed with Kentucky this year.
In the end, Matthew and his family settled on Central Christian College where he will be a two-sport student athlete. Throughout this journey, his supportive parents, Rod and Kathy Haynes and his sister, up and coming tennis star, Jenora Haynes, were always there for him.
SAI wants to wish Matthew Haynes all the BEST! Go get em Matt!
“But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.”
-2 Chronicles 15:7-