WASHINGTON, D.C.—Matt Eby, Gallaudet Athletics’ 2007 Male Athlete of the Year, is part of the Real Maryland, a pro soccer club based in Montgomery County. The Monarchs tapped Eby to join the ranks as a defender. Real Maryland took on the Western Massachusetts Pioneers on Sunday April 20, with Eby in uniform. The Monarchs lost 1-0 in a game that was shortened by rain and thunderstorms.

In addition to his professional duties, Eby is also on the United States Deaf National Soccer Team, set to compete in the World Championships this summer in Greece. Matt also lends his expertise as an assistant coach in Gallaudet’s soccer program, under Head Coach Larry Musa.

"Soccer is a wonderful game! Matt's achievement just demonstrated that in soccer (and at Gallaudet),  proving the naysayers you can when they say you can't is a great satisfaction!! When Matt is playing, he is like a painter, who paints the horizon with brilliant and beautiful colors. His achievement is a testament to our program's ability to nurture and sustain an individual with aspirations to succeed," Coach Musa commented.

While at Gallaudet, Eby was named to the Capital Athletic Conference second-team three years in a row, including scoring 21 career goals. For more information, see the Washington Post online feature here.

For further Monarchs information, go to the Real Maryland FC site.