Matthew Oliva is joined by Concordia coaches Randy Dalzell (left) and Mac Wilkins.
Texas Thrower Matthew Oliva Commits to Concordia
PORTLAND, Ore. – Smithson Valley High School senior Matthew Oliva has signed to continue his education and compete in track and field at Concordia University, Cavalier head coach Randy Dalzell announced today.
Oliva (Spring Branch, Texas) specialized in the discus while also throwing the shot put for three seasons at Smithson Valley High School.
“Matt is an exceptional throwing talent,” assistant coach Mac Wilkins said. “He is a late bloomer, but could be one of the top high school discus throwers in the nation this season. He has the size and athleticism to be successful beyond the collegiate level.”
Matthew is the son of Janice and Frank Oliva. He plans to major in international business at Concordia. He is a member of the National Honor Society and has been active in debate and speech for four years, serving as the club president this year.
“Matt has a maturity and focus on his goals that are rare for a high school student-athlete.” Wilkins said. “I am excited to have Matt with us for the next four years!"
In only its third year as a varsity program, Dalzell has guided the Cavaliers to five individual NAIA national championships, capturing numerous conference regional and national coaching awards in the process. Under coach Wilkins, an Olympic gold medalist and former world record holder in the discus, the Cavs have generated three national titles in the throwing events, including 2007 NAIA discus champion Annie Hess.