By Leslie Talley

Judson was a clear choice for DeBall for many reasons: The return of the cross country team, a great educational program, encouragement from alumni and current students, and "most importantly, a really positive feeling from God about the campus environment." All of these elements combined to make the transition to Judson University an easy decision.

Before this transition, Matt was extremely involved in his church, took missions trips, invested in high adventure events with Scouts, and worked as a lifeguard, counselor, and assistant manager at a camp in Oregon, Illinois, for three summers. He also tells he went to state for journalism and was a part of a regional champion team for cross country.

This consistency plays into how he handles his training and education. He claims that in order to balance homework and sports, he has to intentionally get his homework done on time and plans his schedule around this commitment, disciplining himself to start work earlier if he needs good sleep before practice or a meet.

He may have received this excellent work ethic from his Great Grandma Gena, one of his biggest role models. "At nearly 97 years old, she still mows her own lawn, rakes her leaves, and shovels her driveway (after her husband passed away over 20 years ago.)" In addition, DeBall loves her genuine faith and awesome laugh.

Besides these challenges as a scholar, DeBall also notices the difficulty of transitioning from 5K to 8K races. The guys who have been running 8K for a while longer than Matt keep him motivated to push in order to keep up. It is these same guys that motivated him to enter cross country in the first place here at Judson. When asked what inspired him to join this cross country team, DeBall answered it was the "good coach, great guys from cross country (a great team atmosphere), and I wanted to try something new in college."

In turn, he gives back by being a positive member of the team, "[I love] encouraging other people on the team as we run and as they finish." Through everything, though, Jesus has been the constant encouragement for Matt. Relaying his salvation account, DeBall tells, "I was called to clear repentance and to ministry when I was thirteen and since then, I have tried to incorporate Him into my life more and more each day."

Matt proceeds to tell how Christ has been the unchanging rock in his life as well: "...Even while struggling with sin, I've still felt Him with me. Through times of great joy and happiness to times of pain and sadness, He never lets me forget that He is with me and working (sometimes in ways I can't understand.)" This strong faith influences those both on and off the "cross country course."