When we ask ‘tell us something unique about you’ at registration we get lots of interesting, intriguing, and sometimes funny answers. This one intrigued us.
Matteen’s story begins in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, where he attended Memorial High School. It was here that he discovered his passion for languages and embarked on a remarkable journey with Japanese as his chosen foreign language. Memorial High School is one of the few public school districts in Wisconsin that offers Japanese as a language option.
During his freshman year, Matteen initially took Spanish but soon realized it wasn’t the right fit for him. In his sophomore year, he made the bold decision to switch to Japanese, a choice that would lead him to a unique sport. It was in his Japanese class that he met his friend Kai Rasmussen, who also shares Matteen’s love for the language and culture.
Matteen’s passion for Japanese continued throughout his high school years, and he was fortunate enough to visit Japan not once, but twice before graduating. These experiences deepened his connection with the country and its people, leaving an indelible mark on his heart. Inspired by his love for the language and culture, Matteen decided to pursue a major in Japanese during his college years at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities.
During his undergraduate studies, Matteen embarked on a life-changing adventure by spending an entire year studying abroad at Hiroshima University in Japan. It was during a student welcome event that he first encountered the fascinating world of sumo wrestling. The Hiroshima University Sumo team made quite an impression, arriving in their traditional mawashi (diapers) and sharing captivating stories about their team’s history.
Initially hesitant despite holding a black belt in Karate and Judo, Matteen’s American friends convinced him to give sumo wrestling a try. In November 2015, he officially joined the team and began training alongside his teammates. Despite being a newcomer, Matteen’s dedication and skills quickly caught the attention of his peers. He even had the opportunity to compete in several tournaments at the collegiate level, showcasing his talent and passion for this traditional Japanese sport.
One significant achievement during Matteen’s time on the sumo team was participating in the national tournament held at Japan’s Naval Academy. Competing in the “freshman” division, he displayed remarkable skill and determination, ultimately securing an impressive 3rd or 4th place finish. The journey from being a high school student with a passion for Japanese to becoming a member of Hiroshima University’s sumo team is truly awe-inspiring.
As Matteen prepares to run the Madison Marathon alongside his friend Kai Rasmussen, it is clear that his journey has been shaped by a deep appreciation for the Japanese language, culture, and sports. His story serves as a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one’s passions and embracing new experiences.
We wish Matteen and Kai the best of luck as they embark on this marathon adventure together. May their friendship and shared love for Japanese culture continue to inspire others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.