Matthew Eby's U.S. Deaf National Soccer Team

Eby Teaches Students Through Coaching and by Playing Soccer at a High Level

2012-01-03T21:51:00.001-05:00

Here is a article of Matt in Examiner News in White Plains, New York before the Christmas break.

Click below.
Eby Teaches Students Through Coaching and by Playing Soccer at a High Level

USA Qualifies for 2012 Deaf World Cup

2011-11-30T21:26:00.007-05:00

U.S.A. Deaf National Soccer team has received official announcement that they had been selected to attend to the 2012 Deaf World Football Championship in Ankara, Turkey

The FINAL STANDING of Pan American below

Despite U.S.A. placed third and will not qualify for Deaflympics in 2013. However, if Argentina or Venezuela remove themselves from 2013 Deaflympics, U.S.A. will take the place of that team.

U.S.A. finished the final game of Pan American strong over Mexico 5-1

2011-11-27T08:55:00.002-05:00

Saturday November 26, we played our final game of the Pan American games against Mexico team, we ended the tournament strong winning 5-1. Unfortunately this wasn't enough for U.S.A. team to secure the top 2 spots after Venezuela got another luck after winning 1-0 over Brazil in the same morning. We knew we were much better team than Venezuela. We didn't play our highest level against Venezuela, and we and coaches learned our mistakes.

Luis Reyes and Barry Wilkins each scored two goals for the U.S.A as well as James Rummo contributed a goal after he made an substitute with Angel Oritz.

Despite the U.S.A win, they finished third place in the standing.

USA Falls to Venezuela 1-0

2011-11-22T17:36:00.008-05:00

My apologize for the late updates, there were no wifi services in Barquisimeto, Venezuela for last 4 days.

U.S.A. soccer team suffer heartbreaking loss to Venezuela on Thanksgiving day. The only goal came from own goal from the defender of the U.S.A. team in the final minutes. In the game, the U.S.A. team had been struggling to make an scoring opportunities. Venezuela did a great job on defend the midfield and defense territory. The one uncalled came from referee when one of the U.S.A. player fell in the penalty area by Venezuela keeper.

The U.S.A. team were disappointed for the rest of Thanksgiving day, but we got chance to be together celebrate Thanksgiving dinner in the mall. Each of the players took turns to tell words of what they are thankful for.

The final game against Mexico is mandatory win and have Venezuela lose to Brazil to qualify the top 2 spots.

USA and Argentina battled scoreless 0-0.

2011-11-22T17:33:00.004-05:00

Facing off after loss to Argentina in Taipei, the USA Deaf National team and Argentina soccer teams played to a draw 0-0. Neither squad could score, despite full 90 minutes of play in hot sunny morning. I thought the referee did outstanding job on both team. Several of our players got yellow cards, so did the Argentina team as well... Thankfully none of the players got serious injuries.

USA best chance to score came in the 61th minute, when JP Kanashiro fired a 29-yard line drive and Matt Eby shot 35 yard free kick in 80th, Argentina keeper was able to made a awarkard save. Our keeper Eric Setzer was the man of the game, he made an excellent saves to protect the net.

This was our second game in three days and we’re a little bit tired. We didn’t get a chance to get the win, but I thought our team played pretty well considering against Argentina team.

Now we are looking forward for Thursday game against Venezuela.

Message from our USADSF President Jack Lamberton

2011-11-22T13:01:00.036-05:00

USA defeats Brazil 1-0.

2011-11-21T14:59:00.003-05:00

U.S.A. defeats Brazil 1-0. Trip Neil scored the game's only goal Sunday, lifting U.S.A. Deaf National team past Brazil. In the second half, defender Matt Eby saved a goal attempted by Brazilian player, after deflection by our keeper. This prevented the draw of the game.

The stadium was one of my largest stadium i ever play at, Estadio Metropolitano de Barquisimeto Venezuela Stadium . The grass root is very smooth and comfortable to play at.

Here is the pictures of the stadium we played at and the pictures of U.S.A. Men's Team starter line-ups.

USA Team Photo in Barquisimeto, Venezuela.

2011-11-19T20:03:00.004-05:00

Today was my first day of training with U.S.A. Deaf Soccer team, there was several new faces and old face. Of course, it was good to see them again. We are looking forward for first game against Brazil. After the practice the bus broken down and we had to wait outside in hot weather. After few hours fixing, we were able to made it back to hotel. It was interesting sightseeing around the city of Barquisimeto.

Eby to named U.S. Deaf Soccer Team roster for 2011 Pan American Games for the Deaf

2011-11-11T08:51:00.011-05:00

DALLAS, TX (September 24, 2011) — U.S. Men’s Deaf National Soccer Team head coach Dave Kunitz has named Matthew Eby to be a member of the US Men’s Deaf National Team as we represent the United States at the 2011 Deaf Pan American Games in Barquisimeto, Venezuela. It will be his fifth International appearances.

The U.S. Deaf Soccer will be going up against some very challenging competition and attempting to secure one of the two qualifying spots for the 2013 Deaflympics. The Games are being held November 20 – 26, 2011

Schedule for 2011 Pan Am qualifier games released (Barquisimeto, Venezuela):

November 20, USA vs. Brazil, Stadio Metropolitano
November 22, USA vs. Argentina, Stadio Farid Richa
November 24, USA vs. Venezuela, Stadio Farid Richa
November 26, USA vs. Mexico, Stadio Metropolitano

U.S. Deaf Soccer team feature in The Soccer Insiders magazine!

2010-08-20T21:03:00.009-04:00

Click below...
The Soccer Insiders: The Soccer Inside... US Deaf Soccer

Feature in Orlando Sentinel Deaflympics participant's motto: 'Power in Me'

2009-10-20T18:00:00.000-04:00

Here is a article of Matt in Orlando Sentinel today. The picture was not included online but the below here is the picture which appeared in the today's newspaper.

Orlando Sentinel Deaflympics 'Power in Me'

My students' Deaflympics Projects

2009-09-26T13:42:00.001-04:00

Here is several pictures of my students at NDA that I teach Physical Education. The students did project on Deaflympics. They have had enjoyed their project and follow my U.S. Deaf National Soccer team. They did amazing job on the project. They made flag poster of countries participated in Deaflympics, Deaflympics logs and mascot. Even they made the US Deaflympics logos. Several of the students have amazing art work.

The Marketing of Deaflympics

2009-09-18T10:13:00.003-04:00

What a excellent marketing within Taiwan itself. I’m impressed with Taiwan. It will go down as one of the best Deaflympics in the history books! Many cheers to Taiwan! This will bring awareness to the world about deaf culture! I hope the next Deaflympics host countries will learn from Taiwan and keep improving!

The games had ended as we went to Closing Ceremony.

2009-09-15T19:19:00.013-04:00

The closing ceremony ended with an impressive fireworks display. All of our athletes sat on the field in the middle of the stadium. The meals was provided with varieties of taiwanese food. Many countries exchange clothing, countries pins and uniforms. I enjoying exchange the pin as much as possible. I also had a chance to meet the different countries. I'm impressed with the Taipei's Deaflympics! I want to congratulation and thank you all of the hard work they had done and they are very welcome to USA teams.
When considering the amount of money Taiwan spent for this event, which was about $50 million U.S. dollars, there is no question that they were able to plan the greatest Deaflympics. Here’s never been anything like it. Including Taipei's brand-new facilities around the city in order to have locations of competitions close by which have never done before and much more that I have not describe!

The Deafympics flag will begin again in Athens, Greece in 2013, in 4 years!

During the morning, our USA team went to a USA Team Picture

US Women team won the Gold Medal!

2009-09-15T19:10:00.000-04:00

In Taipei Stadium, the women team played against Germany for the second time. They won the first match 4-0 a week ago. In Gold medal game, the US Deaf Women scored 4 goals in second half to win the gold medal! It was exciting for them. They were able to attach in German's side of field and able to pressure them well than the first half. The Germans seem wore out in the end of the game. U.S. took advantage and scored goals. In the medal ceremony, the US Women team looked sharp with red warm-ups and received gold medal.

With suspensions players we couldn't get another win against Ireland.

2009-09-14T04:42:00.004-04:00

In a nice weather for the 7th and 8th place finish, we U.S. soccer team fail to win to finish 7th place. I had one shot from 35 yards which hit crossbar of the goal net. I still couldn't believe this. I still have this in my mind of that shot. We would have had tied 1-1 but we finished the game losing 3-0. Four of our players included myself had played excellent but this weren't enough for a win. The bench players played their heart out of the game... It was great Deaflympics soccer games for all of us. The one of highlights was when we had huge win over Great Britain and advanced into the next round for the first time in U.S. Deaf Soccer history. Unfortunately we were not able to win again in the next round.

I'm heading to the Women's soccer game which our U.S. Women Soccer team will be playing against Germany for the Gold Medalist game!

Argentina played unnecessary soccer game against U.S.

2009-09-13T02:04:00.002-04:00

On the most hottest soccer game in Taipei, we had several chances but Argentina played unnecessary soccer game with physical and elbows game. I have nothing else to say about the game. Our players got injuries included myself which I got slide tackle and my shoulder fell hard on ground first. I continue playing with pain... Later, my teammate got hit by Argentina player's elbow while going for the head ball and he got knocked out in the air and his head fell hard on ground. He had a head concussion and was taken to hospital. It was scary game and sad to see the team doing this in the game like this. We ended up losing 2-0. Three players on our team got red card, and will suspended the next game.

Please click for more story below.

Argentina elbows U.S. in men's soccer

In Quarterfinal for first time in Deaflympics history, U.S. couldn't handle Russian team.

2009-09-10T09:34:00.007-04:00

In a windy weather in the quarterfinal for the first time in U.S. Deaf Soccer history in Deaflympics, U.S. Deaf Men's soccer loses a tough match against Russian team which the final score was 5-0. Russian scored first goal in the first 2 minutes from penalty kick after one player fouled in penalty area. This really hurt us team. The next 2 goals Russia scored was from deflect of our team into the goal. This was unfortunately for us. We continue defend and trying to get chance to score a goal but there are few opportunities but didn't get the ball in the net. We will play Argentina for 5th place.

ts them 5-0. "A Series of Unfortunate Events" would be best used to describe the first half as the first Russian goal

Taipei 101 Worlds current tallest building

2009-09-10T09:33:00.002-04:00

My wife and I was able to get chance to sightseeing to World's current tallest building, Taipei 101. While we went in the elevator, it took us 36 seconds to 89th floor. This is also one of worlds fastest elevator. We could see the whole city of Taipei. There is indoor observatory and outdoor observatory, I really like outside because I could see more of city of Taipei and feel the wind. There is a treasure sky with coral arts gallery and jewelry inside. One thing amazing me was the yellow wind damper, it hold the entire building to the firm bedrock below. It weight 660 tons.

We also went to Sun yat-sen memorial hall, one of several temples. We got to see the change of the guard there. This person is founder father of the Republic of China which was great awe- inspiring bronze statue.

U.S defeats defending Gold Medalist Great Britain 3-1!

2009-09-08T01:53:00.000-04:00

We created a BIG upset against Great Britain today! We won 3-1. Since we scored 3 goals today we are advancing to the next round. If we had only scored 2 goals today we would have not advanced!!! One of those goals that happened today was from myself! "waves hands" I scored the 2nd goal with a header.

Great Britain opened the game with them leading 1-0. We had a major come back and we did not give up! Our 1st goal was by player Angel, The 2nd goal you already know about and the 3rd is from Trip from a free kick; it went under Great Britian's wall.

We are waiting to find out who we are going to play against for the next round. Thanks for reading this! Come back and check my blog out soon to find out more...

US women team defeats Germany

2009-09-07T06:02:00.000-04:00

Our men soccer team went to the game to support the women team! The U.S. Women team begin their first game against Germany. They will try to defend 2005 Gold medal. They knew German is a most improved team after winning silver in 2008 World Cup in Greece. But the U.S. attacked on German side most of the game. With several scoring opportunities, U.S. scored first goal in 15th minute and lead 2-0 in half-time. They ended with 4-0 win over Germany. They maintain control of the ball most of the 2nd half while the Germans continue fatigue in the end of the game which was advantage by the U.S.

U.S. scoreless draw against Japan 0-0

2009-09-06T07:34:00.003-04:00

On the beautiful afternoon U.S. Deaf National Men soccer team continues struggle to score a goal. We had several chances but weren't able to put ball in the net. We started the game with great offensive performance. I moved from defender to middle midfield. Japan's defense played very well and begin a better offensive against us. Both teams continues battles every possession. Japan shoved several elbows to U.S. players but referee ignore it. Once one player hit other player in the back while jump for head ball, the player fell hard on the ground. He was taken out of the game. Again, the referee didn't call it. We continue focusing still in the game. In the last few minutes we had two opportunities by two yards away to the goal. Japan's player blocked twice... Our goalie is MVP since he saved a penalty kick after I had a questionable foul in the penalty box.

We have to keep our head up and knew that we should have won the game. Our chance to advance to 2nd round is to beat Great Britain on Tuesday.

Open Ceremony was amazed ever for Deaflympics.

2009-09-05T22:27:00.003-04:00

The Taipei Summer Deaflympics opening ceremony rocked in very awe with thousands of lights sparkled and dimmed as it countdown to open the Deaflympics games. Since it was sold out of 20,000 spectators. We all athletes were not able to watch it LIVE but we watched on television in the arena next to the stadium. We could feel the vibrated with the beats of the drums and gongs. The two hours of worth of the beautiful dancing performances and once when one performer who fly down to the ground. After waiting for our USA team’s turn to march around the biggest crowd of my life, we went down on the ground with thousands of flashing lights in my eyes… I couldn’t believe I am actually there!

While the ceremony begin to close, they use torch to pass around then arrive to set ablaze with thousands of fireworks lights over the sky. This is the best ever for the Deaflympics opening ceremonies!

If you missed the LIVE, don't worry! Please click the link below!

Video of Amazing Open Ceremony

GAME RESULTS

2009-09-04T08:34:00.003-04:00

Here is the game results and statistics of all the games. Feel free to click below. And on the right column too.

GAME RESULTS

Irish defeated USA

2009-09-04T05:14:00.002-04:00

In flooded of puddles on the field, rain continues on and off we played our first game against Ireland. We begin the game with the Mayor of Taipei kick off the opening first game of Deaflympics soccer game. He greeted every player. It must be honor to shake his hand.

As we begin the game against Ireland. We were not able to play with them. They played better than us and win every ball against us. We continue struggled to production the offensive. Ireland scored 2 goals in first half. Ireland scored on free kick, then again from side crossing to forward. The final score was 0-2. We must continue practicing on long ball and pressure on opponent offensive.

Road trip to Taipei!

2009-09-02T19:29:00.003-04:00

Our U.S. Deaf National team left early to Taipei to check in the Miramar Garden Taipei hotel. We rode bus for 3 hours road trip to Taipei from Chia-Yi. When we arrived I was very awe of city of Taipei... I was overwhelmed of size and how crowded it is. Several people say its like New York city, and some say worse than NYC. Now I got to see it. Also, I can see the Taipei 101, current world's tallest building.

The hotel worker did amazing job and did all of the work with the team bags, we just go straight to our room and the bags will come to our room later... Several teammates and I went down city of Taipei and we went to MRT subway. It's much alike metro in Washington, D.C.

Few hours later, all of us team went to Center city of Taipei to register for Deaflympics. There was buses that have Deaflympics logo on the side and on the front of buses... After waiting for our turn into the line for badges, several athletes have to take audiogram to make sure not to violate the Deaflympics policy. We came back to hotel and had a late dinner.

Media day

2009-09-02T10:32:00.005-04:00

Our U.S. Deaf National Men's and Women's soccer team had media day today. The photographer from U.S. Media team performed several teams and individuals pictures. The U.S. Deaf National Soccer's website recently upgraded new website, you can also check out at usdeafsoccer.com or click on the logo of U.S. Deaf Soccer on right column.

Scrimmage against local team

2009-09-02T10:06:00.001-04:00

After 4 days of training, our U.S. Deaf National team had a scrimmage against local team in Chiayi. We defeated them but overall we played poorly and we could had done better. I knew we didn't do well, even myself. I'm glad this happened right now than the first game against Ireland on September 4th. Coaches weren't pleased how we played. after the game we had a team meeting and figure out what went wrong and discuss what we need to improve on. Then coach speak with us and kept on telling us stay positive and we need to play top level not below level of competition. He also say we performed lazy passes and missed too many easy goals. We will make sure this won't happen again. Today, we will leave to Taipei Miramar Garden hotel where the Deaflympics will place in Taipei. We have 2 days left to our first game.

Food in Taiwan

2009-08-31T07:58:00.000-04:00

Every breakfast and dinner we US Team ate hotel restaurant with all you can eat buffets. It’s really nice because I can have choices of food to taste and enjoy. I couldn’t name the food that I ate because I don’t know their food.

During the lunch, we go on our own since every team have varieties of training schedule. It is really nice so we have choices of place to eat. We usually go to the Mall’s food court since it’s next to the hotel. The food there is hard to order and learn since everyone who made food barely speak English.

U.S. Soccer team open first day of training camp

2009-08-30T00:52:00.010-04:00

The humidity outside for our U.S. Soccer Team today as we headed out to National Chung Cheng University in Chiai-Yi, Taiwan, to open the first day of training camp for the 2009 Summer Deaflympics. With several buses picking the different teams from the hotel to the university throughout the day.

We started our first practice at 8:30 a.m. with warm-up sprints and side lunges, followed by stretching. When I got outside, I was already sweating and it’s in the morning. We also had the first scrimmage in the afternoon after thunder hit the area. After the scrimmage, we gathered to discuss aspects of our game that we needed to improve at.

We are staying in the 14-story Nice Prince Hotel, which towers above the cluster of low-rise houses traffic in Chia-Yi. Most of the times, I couldn't understand the languages around the area. There are a few English languages available. Outside, there were many of rush of cars and scooters in the narrow streets. I have never seen that so many scooters in my life and see tons of scoter parking on the street. So far I'm impressed with the people being very friendly and helpful.

U.S. Team arrives to Taiwan

2009-08-28T08:00:00.004-04:00

After the USA Deaf Sports team met in the Los Angeles Westin Hotel ballroom with athletes and coaches, we picked up the team apparel and watch an orientation session before heading to Los Angeles International to Taipei Taiwan.

When we arrived we showed the enthusiasm and honor to represent USA team. The total of flight was 14 hours and we were 1 hour early than time scheduled. But we waited while since longer lines for baggage claim and customs. We slept, chatting, got a chance to meet new athletes and relaxing in the plane. Taiwan is really lot different from USA.

I am excited for my second time to Deaflympics, especially this year when there’s great opportunity for our team. Any team we will compete will be tough to play against.

As USADSF president Lawrence Fleischer status that the Taiwanese would be enthusiastic hosts. He said that recently, in Taipei, 30,000 people turned out to watch the martial arts warm-ups, and the tickets for the opening ceremonies are already sold out. He also said, “The 21st Deaflympics will be the best ever."

The time is coming closer to DEAFLYMPICS 2009!

2009-08-24T20:28:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone, Thank you for checking out this blog.

I will be leaving on Wednesday August 26 to Los Angeles to meet all of the U.S. Deaf Teams. We as a U.S. Deaf Teams will fly out to Taipei the very next morning at 1:55 a.m on 27th. We will be arriving Taipei, Taiwan on August 28 at 6:25 a.m. local time and we will board coach buses and travel 3 hours to Chia-Yi for our training camp. We will stay at the nice Prince Hotel for a duration of 7 days. We will go back to Taipei on September 3rd to check in the Miramar Garden Taipei Hotel and to check out the venues and where the Opening and Closing Ceremonies will take place.

Here is my blog for the Deaflympics in Taipei, Taiwan on September 4-15, 2009. I set up the blog so you all can be up to date of what is going before and during Deaflympics.

There is current news about Deaflympics included in the blog along with different websites you can click on "click the logos " on the right column about the games.

Please feel free to read blog below and make a comments.

Thank you,

Matthew Eby
#12

Good News, Typhoon skirts training camp site

2009-08-21T21:23:00.004-04:00

Posted by Tara Schupner on August 20, 2009

As the Taiwanese bury their dead and continue cleanup efforts after a devastating typhoon last week, U.S. Team administrators have received a small dose of good news: The Americans’ training camp facilities and hotels were unharmed by the storm.

The U.S. Team’s training camp facilities and hotel in Chia-Yi, Taiwan, were relatively unaffected by Typhoon Morakot, said Jeff Salit, U.S.A. Deaf Sports Federation’s vice president of NSO Affairs.

“Everything is all set for us to arrive.”

The most damage occurred to the south, he said.

“Most of the damage — similar to what Katrina did to New Orleans — was suffered to the south of where our training camp is,” he said.

Morakot also left Taipei, location of most Deaflympics events, relatively unharmed, the American Embassy reported, according to a press release issued by the USA Deaf Sports Federation.

“Taipei was relatively unaffected by the typhoon. … all of our hotel lodgings and training sites are fully operational and anticipating our arrival,” said Brianne Burger, USADSF operations specialist, said in the press release, issued Aug. 17.

The U.S. contingent is set to arrive at Chia-Yi on Aug. 28, and move to Taipei on Sept. 4 for the inception of the Games. The opening ceremonies are slated to take place Sept. 5.

Despite Typhoon Morakot, Games to go on

2009-08-13T17:44:00.007-04:00

Posted by Tara Schupner on August 12, 2009 From US Deaflympics Website

Although a fatal typhoon has inflicted widespread devastation across the island of Taiwan, threatening the U.S. Deaflympics Team’s training camp plans, the 2009 Games itself will take place as planned, officials said.

Typhoon Morakot pummeled Taiwan on Aug. 8 and 9, drenching the island with more than 80 inches of rain and killing at least 63 people, several news agencies have reported.

However, despite the destruction, officials said, the Games will go on.

“The Deaflympics will continue as planned. We do have some concerns about the training camp site, and are still waiting for information,” said Jeff Salit, U.S.A. Deaf Sports Federation’s vice president of NSO Affairs.

The U.S. training camp is slated to take place Aug. 29 to Sept. 4 at Chia-Yi, on the west coast of Taiwan. However, the region has been hard-hit by the typhoon. A video posted to YouTube showed a river overtopping a dam south of Chia-Yi, and another showed a nearby hotel collapsing. Also in a Chia-Yi village, tens of thousands of pigs and chickens died, causing concerns about sanitation, The China Post reported.

Salit said he is awaiting further information from the American Embassy in Taiwan, and cautions that it’s too soon to speculate about any changes to training camp plans. He remains optimistic, though.

“We have eighteen days until training camp begins,” he said. “That’s plenty of time for things to dry out.”

Meanwhile, he said, athletes should continue preparing for the Games as usual.

“Athletes, please focus on your training. Stay in shape, and let us committee members take care of the logistics,” he said. “Let’s go for the gold!

Fundraising goal has been met!

2009-08-04T16:41:00.031-04:00

Thank you for the supporting the U.S. DEAF NATIONAL SOCCER TEAM

Angelos Soccer Corner, Lancaster, PA

Manager Ben from Soccer City in Longwood, FL

Manager Viceite from Adidas Outlet in Orlando, FL

-Psychiatric Solutions Inc., National Deaf Academy

-Angelo's Soccer Corner

-Adidas Outlet

-Chamba

-SoccerCity

-Don & Martha Erickson

-Fred & Ruth Toms

-Neil & Julie Fredrickson
-Luis Gendive

-Steve & Kara Gagnon

-Oyamo Caracci

-Jared Yoder

-Charmaine Mendonsa

-Bruce Weston

-Alberto Santana

-Jag Dawadi

-Dan Matamoros

-Miguel & Raquel Garcia

-Tina Myatt

-Matt Dray

-Janeen Wilson

-Renee Geary

-Kenton Twidt

-Josh Duncan

-Michael Kennedy

-David Welker

-Roger Matamoros

-Brian Tingley

-Julian Mitchell

-Lisa Graham-Weber

-Joey Trapani

National Team Training Camp

2009-07-10T21:14:00.018-04:00

Here is a video from Fox News 10 which came to our game.

US Deaf Soccer on Fox News 10

In the month of June 18-21 our U.S. Deaf National Soccer team went to Pensacola, FL for training camp. We had training sessions and played two games and tied both games 1-1 and 2-2, against Bayside Thunder U-18and Perdido Bay Futbol Club's U-17 team. In the second game I scored two goals and lead 2-0 before Perdido Bay team came back with 2 goals in final 20 minutes. The temperature of the day had reached to 100 degrees. The new players was invited to the training camp for the tryout. We will be able to add players in the final team roster for Deaflmpics in Taipei, Taiwan.

Matt's highlights at Real Maryland FC

2009-07-09T19:17:00.025-04:00

Former Gallaudet University soccer player Matt Eby have signed with Real Maryland FC, a new professional soccer team in Maryland. He is believed to be the only Deaf one in the United States. Perhaps the most accomplished American was Silver Spring's Curtis Pride, who started for the U.S. under-17 national team in 1985 World Championship in China before pursuing baseball and playing for six major league teams.

Real Maryland F.C. is an American soccer team, founded in 2007. The team is a member of the (USL-2) United Soccer Leagues Second Division, and will make its competitive debut in 2008. They will play their home games in the Championship Stadium at the Maryland SoccerPlex in the town of Boyds, near Germantown, Maryland. The team's colors are white and gold.

Check this out Matt's Real Maryland Player Feature:

Real Maryland Player Feature

Check this out Matt's Washington Post interview:

Washington Post Interview

Gallaudet University 2003-2007

2009-07-02T22:05:00.016-04:00

Matt Eby was named to the second team, All-CAC for the third straight years. Over the 2006 season, Eby scored six of the nine team goals. He was also recognized as the October Athlete of the Month by Gallaudet Athletics. Eby ended his soccer career with 21 goals scored, and was considered to be one of the top defenders within the Capital Athletic Conference. The Lancaster, PA native contributed the winning goal in 2006 over Southern Virginia University in an away match. In April 2007, Eby earned top honors as the Gallaudet Male Athlete of the Year. He will continue to help lead the Bison over his service as assistant coach to head coach Larry Musa for the 2007 season.

Issue: June 21, 2007 By Sports Information Director Oscar Ocuto

Meet the 2007 Male Student-Athlete of the Year– Matt Eby

When you want a definition of hard work, Matt Eby is most likely your go-to answer. The Pennsylvania native was born and raised in Lancaster, Pa. and played four years of high school soccer and basketball. As a starting junior guard, the Lancaster Mennonite Blazers went to the Pennsylvania State Final Four and posted a 21-10 season. Blazer soccer proved fruitful as well, garnering 20+ wins and a State Final Four trip with Matt as a defender. During his senior year, Blazer basketball went 21-5 and soccer amassed a healthy 20-4-4 record.
Matt brought his lifelong passions for soccer and basketball to Kendall Green when he enrolled at Gallaudet in the fall of 2003. Gallaudet is a home of sorts for him; he met Kim Erickson (now Eby), his wife, and they have a 5-month-old son, Trenton. Matt also continued his excellence on the soccer pitch, scoring 21 goals as a defender over 4 years, in addition to being named to the Capital Athletic Conference (CAC) All-Conference 2nd team for three years in a row. In his final season, Matt had a game-winning goal against Southern Virginia to help notch another victory for the Bison soccer team under Coach Luis Gendive.
The 6’2 Gallaudetian is also continuing to prove his mettle as a hoopster on the hardwood, playing in his third year for Coach James DeStefano and the Bison Men’s Basketball team. When asked about his most memorable basketball moment to date, Matt’s eyes lit up and a smile crossed his lips as he recounted the buzzer-beater half-court shot he made in the closing seconds of a game against CAC newcomer Hood College. “We were down the whole game, and my shot won it by three in the last seconds. It also was my best game where I scored 17 points,” he said, the proud smile still etched on his face.
That same boyish smile crossed his face when he talked about the day he became a father. “It was hard seeing Kim go through so much labor—I was surprised, because we had been thinking it might be a girl. We didn’t know the gender, and it was a nice surprise after all. The whole experience touched my heart.”
Hard work defines Matt Eby, because he has not let up in sports, or in life. Not only does he play soccer and basketball, he also is a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity, works as a weekend Staff Residential Assistant for Campus Life, and balances school as well as family life. Matt plans to graduate with a major in Physical Education and have a 3.0 GPA or better to go with the degree.
When speaking about family life, Matt mentioned a role model: “My middle brother, James—because he was always helping me out growing up, coming to my soccer games and interpreting for me.”
This father, student, and athlete is a man of few words, one who leads by action and example, on and off the playing venues. He plans to continue playing for the Bison hoopsters, since he redshirted one year due to an injury prior to competing on the national soccer team for the 2005 Deaflympics. His goal for basketball? “To have a .500 season, and go to the CAC championships!”

Questions & Answers

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Q: Who is your favorite film star in movies right now?

A: For the Male, I’d go with Bruce Willis. Female I’d have to say Jessica Biel.

Q: What was your favorite subject in high school?

A: I’d have to say it was always something to do with sports, Physical Education was my major in college and I’m current Physical Education teacher.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do other than U.S. Deaf Soccer team?

A: Spending time with my family, watch sports on TV, playing for Florida Deaf Club Basketball.

Q: What advice would you give to high school students who constantly state that their goal is to become professional player?

A: Keep your priorities in line and make sure that you always have something to fall back on. Important to stay disciplined in their practice habits and school work. You would have lot sacrifices in going out, hanging out with friends, and you have to live in the gym and make the commitment.

Q: In your mind, what will constitute a successful Deaflympics for the U.S. Deaf National Team?

A: In my opinion, the first part is that we’ve got to get consistently good efforts every training, something we haven’t had in a couple of months. To advancing to second round is the first success, then go from there. It is almost true that with any team once you make it to the second round, we'll have a more realistic chance to win it all.

Biography of Matthew Eby

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Matthew Eby was born March 24, 1984 in Lancaster, PA. Matthew has been part of U.S. Men's Deaf National Soccer team since 2003. In 2008 he also helped his U.S. Deaf National Soccer team to best ever 4th place in US Deaf Soccer history in 1st World Deaf Football Championship in Patras, Greece. Here is a year by year break down of Matthew's Soccer career in international, college and high school.

2009

This incoming September we, U.S. Men’s Deaf National Soccer Team will be compete in 21st Summer Deaflympics Games which be held in Taipei, Taiwan this September 5-15 2009.

2008

Matthew signed one year contract with Real Maryland FC Professional Soccer team, the United Soccer Leagues (USL) he was also named the one and only Deaf Professional Soccer player in America according to Washington Post. Matthew started 4 games out of 11 games. Due to international duty with U.S. Men's Deaf National team, he missed 10 games with Real Maryland.
The U.S. Men's Deaf National Soccer team went to the inaugural 1st Deaf World Cup in Patras, Greece. We trained there for nine days. We placed forth place that is the best we’ve done as a team and in the U.S. Deaf National Soccer history.

2007

The U.S. Men's Deaf National Soccer team went to the international match in England. We played two games against Harrisons FC 1-0 win and semi pro club Heath Hayes Town 5-1 loss before traveling to London to take on Great Britain Deaf National team. The U.S. actually created more chances but poor finishing resulted with a 0-0 tie. This was a major step forward for the U.S. team. Great Britian who defeated Iran in the Gold medal game to claim their status as the best Deaf soccer team in the world in 2005 Deaflympics games in Melbourne, Australia.

2005

The U.S. Men's Deaf National Soccer team went to 20th Deaflympics in Melbourne, Australia. We trained there for nine days. We had fielded the most talented team in history. We went on to defeat two more European teams, Greece and the Czech Republic on our way to a 9th place finish, after losing to Turkey and Italy in first round.

College Career 2003-2007:

Matthew finished career at Gallaudet University with 21 goals scored as a defender. He received school's Male Athlete of Year in 2007. He was named Capital Athletic Conference All Conference 2nd team for three straight years 2004-2006 and was considered to be one of the top defenders in the Capital Athletic Conference. He also serve team captain for three years. In his final season, Matt had a game-winning goal against Southern Virginia to help notch another victory for the Bison soccer team under Coach Luis Gendive.
Matthew also played for Gallaudet University basketball team under James DeStefano. In 2005-2006 season was his memorable basketball moment Matt recounted the buzzer-beater half-court shot he made in the closing seconds of a game against CAC newcomer Hood College. His team were down the whole game, and his shot won the game by three in the last seconds. Matt scored 17 points in this game. The team ended up with 15-14 record.
Eby, who recieve a bachelor of science degree in Physical Education, and minor in Athletic Coach in 2007.

Personal:

His full name is Matthew Lynn Eby. Matthew is a Physical Education Teacher at Preparatory School of National Deaf Academy, a Psychiatric Residential Facility for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and Autism. He resides in Mount Dora, FL with his wife Kimberly, two sons, Trenton(three) and Kona (one).

Matthew's dream to be a Deaf professional soccer player and winning a gold medal at Deaflympics.

Career highlights:

2007 Gallaudet University Male Athlete of Year
2006 Capital Athletic Conference, 2nd Team All Conference
2005 Capital Athletic Conference, 2nd Team All Conference
2004 Capital Athletic Conference, 2nd Team All Conference
2003 Named to U.S. Men's Deaf National Soccer Team

High School:

2000-2003 Lancaster Mennonite High school, Lancaster, PA
Member Varsity Boys’ Soccer team 2000-2002, Two-time first team All-Star selection 2002,2001
2002 Lancaster-Lebanon League Championships, 2001 PIAA State AA Semifinalist
Member Varsity Boys' Basketball team 2001-2003 All Defensive Team for basketball,
2002 Basketball PIAA State AAA Final 4, 2003 Sectional Champions