MONTREAL – In 2023, when Kristian Matte first lifted the Gray Cup, he could have retired right away. But, when deciding to pursue his career, he did not anticipate finding himself on the sidelines.
As early as training camp, the highly regarded veteran lost his starting position to Philippe Gagnon. A verdict which gives a shock a few months after having celebrated under the confetti with his family.
He appeared in the first six games of the season in a supporting role. Then, two injuries took him further away from the field.
At the very least, at the start of the playoffs, Matte was able to put on his uniform for training and that’s enough for his happiness.
“Having fun with my friends, I still like that! “, he said with shining eyes.
This balm comes at an opportune time.
“This is perhaps one of the most difficult years of my career. It sure didn’t go the way I wanted, but that’s part of reality. I wanted to accept the circumstances and I gave everything I could to help my team,” confided this valiant teammate.
A few weeks before celebrating his 39the birthday, a knee problem landed him on the injured list. When he was ready to come back, it was a calf that ruined everything. Lucky for the vast majority of his career with injuries, Matte paid the price in 2024.
“Some will say it’s the age,” said Matte with a smile. But it can happen anytime. Mentally, you have to stay strong. »
It’s already fascinating that he can still play at a high level a few months shy of his forties. Plus, he had his championship ring to put his bad luck into perspective.
He admits, however, that it wasn’t enough to keep him in good spirits.
“At the beginning, I had a hard time mentally. But I remembered my early years when I had to be patient. Everyone supported me, both in the team and in my family,” said the friendly colossus.
Moreover, it was the pleasant side of football that encouraged him to play an extra year.
“I was having so much fun!” “, explained Matte, who saw the next question coming even faster than an opponent on the defensive line.
“I have no regrets, I wanted to come back. At my age, you might think it’s a shame to get hurt when you’re nearing the end. Except I only control what I can. I’m still at work with friends and I’m having fun,” replied the athlete from the south shore of Montreal.
Of course, the excellent performance of his troop delights him. He wouldn’t ask for anything better to relive the exhilaration of the Gray Cup even without a major contribution.
“We started the year like we finished 2023. Then, we went through a roller coaster, but we know the quality of our team. We are capable of playing solid football in all three facets when everyone does their job. We are confident because of the way we play,” said the guard.
We don’t tell because of the gray hairs in his beard, Matte displays a beautiful balance between wisdom and a young heart. So he found a way to maximize the weeks away from the game.
“It gave me a little more time to learn more about other aspects like game development. I think I’m going to finish this season being even smarter,” he submitted.
This is a wise use of your time for someone who won’t leave the field even after hanging up their crampons. It will only remain to be determined where and when he will begin his coaching career.
“I’ve been playing football for over 30 years. I would never see myself far from a football field. Whether with young people or older people, it fascinates me,” said Matte without needing to justify his love for this sport.
