For Matlock, wearing Indy Nike RBI across his chest also meant representing the community that helped shape him.
“It was awesome! Being able to represent my hometown is an honor. I’m so very thankful I was there to play for my community.”
The tournament also challenged him to grow beyond the field.
“I’ve learned to be more comfortable doing things more on my own, which I am very thankful for.”
One moment from the tournament will always stand out.
With his team looking for a spark, Matlock came through with a clutch triple and later scored his team’s only run.
“One memory I will always remember is when I hit my triple and scored the only RBI. I remember telling myself not to be the last out and that I had to do anything I could to get on for my teammates. When I hit that triple, it was one of the best moments in my life because of the amount of pressure. Coming out on top was a great moment for me.”
Although his high school career has ended, Matlock says the lessons he learned at Southport continue to influence the way he approaches the game.
“My time at Southport helped me by knowing Mudita and that if I did poor, it will be okay as long as I was supporting my teammates and doing whatever it takes to win.”
The experience also strengthened his confidence as a leader.
“This experience helped improve my confidence by knowing I am able to be there for my teammates and future teammates and be the team leader I know that I can be.”
When asked what advice he would give future Southport baseball players, Matlock didn’t talk about statistics. Instead, he emphasized playing for the person beside you.
“MLB players don’t care about their batting average. They care about doing what it takes to win. Coaches don’t care about your batting average. They care if you can help the team win. The best plays I have made in my career in high school and summer ball have been selfless thought-process plays where I am thinking about the guy next to me. I came through in big moments for my team just by thinking about my teammates rather than myself. When you think about the guy next to you rather than yourself, you play so much better. I can promise you that.”
Matlock’s experience in Kansas City was another reminder that Southport alumni continue to make an impact beyond high school, carrying the program’s values with them while competing on bigger stages.
