07/31/2026
Everyone knows Coach Matt or at least it seems like it. He has been with me from the very first practice, but our relationship goes back many years to a time when we stumbled across each in the woods doing the same thing, building trails. If you have ridden any stretch of our ever growing Pearland Trail system it is fairly likely Coach Matt has helped build it. He finished 2nd in the overall trail building hours for Texas NICA and likely would have won had he put all his actual hours in. Regardless, he’s incredibly humble and giving and we are a better team because he is a part of it. Oh and he’s one heck of a surfer too!
Q: What inspired you to start coaching mountain biking, and what keeps you passionate about it?
A: I started coaching because I love mountain biking and wanted to help others experience the same freedom, confidence, and adventure that riding has given me. Early on, I realized that watching someone master a skill they once thought was impossible was just as rewarding as improving my own riding.
What keeps me passionate is that every rider is different, every lesson brings new challenges, and I get to spend time outdoors sharing a sport I genuinely love. Seeing riders grow in confidence, both on and off the bike, is what makes coaching so rewarding.
Q: What’s a standout moment from this past season?
A: There were so many memorable moments this season, but one that really stands out happened during a practice ride at 29 Pines. One of our riders, Ryder, was out in front of me, and I was blown away by how well he was riding. Seeing how much he had progressed was an incredible moment and reminded me why I love coaching.
Q: What’s one coaching method or practice you’ve improved this year, and how did it impact the team?
A: This year, I’ve focused on providing more individual feedback instead of giving general advice to the whole group. I’ve spent more time observing each rider’s technique and tailoring my coaching to their specific strengths and areas for improvement.
This approach has helped riders improve more quickly because they receive clear, actionable feedback that applies directly to them. It has also built confidence, encouraged more questions, and created a supportive environment where riders feel comfortable challenging themselves. Overall, the team has become more skilled, more engaged, and more confident on the trails.
Q: As the Coyotes Teen Trail Corps Coach, what’s a new goal or vision you have for next season’s program or your riders’ development?
A: My goal for next season is to create an environment where every rider feels supported, challenged, and inspired to grow. I want our Teen Trail Corps members to develop not only their technical riding skills, but also confidence, leadership, and a strong commitment to trail stewardship. Most importantly, I hope they build lasting friendships, a lifelong passion for mountain biking, and a desire to give back to the trail community.
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