Inside the Locker Room

JoEll Matzen: What attracted you to the football program here at NWU?

Matt Hagge: I really liked the coaching staff here. NWU had been one of the better football programs and (still is) in Nebraska. Also, I liked the location of the campus in Lincoln. The last reason was because of the tradition of great academics NWU has had.

JM: Do you have any rituals that you do before games?
MH: I like to go out about two hours early before a game and throw some footballs to the receivers. I think it really helps with getting a feel for the gameday atmosphere.

JM: You've got a few games under your belt so far. What's the outlook for the rest of the season?
MH: The last couple of years we've been 7-3, and we want to change that record this year. We just take it one game at a time and prepare for each team every week. Our defense is looking good like always, and our offense is really starting to step to the plate also.

JM: What are your plans after graduation this spring?
MH: Good question! I'm planning on going to medical school, we'll see if I get accepted for next fall. But if I don't, I'll probably find a job and keep applying.

JM: What has been your biggest struggle in your time at NWU?
MH: My biggest struggle has been balancing time with school and practice. Football takes up so much time during the week; it's hard getting used to all the homework, practice, film and meetings. But you get used to the time management and how to balance everything.

JM: What has been your best memory of football here at NWU?
MH: I would say beating Midland in a last-second play last year. We were down by four points and drove the ball 50 yards with 1:05 left. My roommate, Kory Kahlandt, scored a touchdown on a fourth and two with one second left. It was the most intense last minute of a game that I've ever been a part of. That win was one of seven in a row we rattled off last season.