Matt Vowinkel ‘17 Makes a Name for Himself in the United Soccer League
By Nektarios Donas ‘24
Matt Vowinkel ’17, a decorated soccer player and Chaminade High School alum, is heading to One Knoxville, a soccer club in the United Soccer League (USL) League One. From Chaminade, to Hofstra University, to getting drafted to Major League Soccer (MLS), and finally to One Knoxville, Vowinkel has already accomplished a lot in his young career.
In an interview, Tarmac was able to discuss the many feats he has achieved so far, and what the entire process has meant to him.
Tarmac: Hi Matt. First of all, I wanted to congratulate you on everything you have accomplished so far in your career. One particular accomplishment that comes to mind is getting drafted to the MLS. How exactly did it feel to accomplish such an incredible feat?
Vowinkel: Thank you. For me it was a big deal because it’s always been a dream of mine to be drafted to the MLS, so just to accomplish that was a dream come true for me. I was ecstatic when it happened because I honestly didn’t expect it. Achieving that goal is something that I will never forget.
Tarmac: After getting drafted, you made the decision to go back to Hofstra to finish your collegiate career. What exactly went into making that decision?
Vowinkel: There were many factors that went into it. The pandemic was still a huge deal and there was a lot going on. I felt like I had unfinished business since I had aspirations to win a league championship with Hofstra. Also, it was important to me to finish my academic and athletic career with all my teammates and coaches.
Tarmac: Currently, you are signed to One Knoxville in the USL League One. How did you feel getting the call that you would be a member of the team?
Vowinkel: It felt amazing. This was another surprise. This was my first real professional contract and signing it meant that I could do what I love. That’s the best feeling.
Tarmac: You were a member of the soccer team here at Chaminade. What impact did your time as a Flyer have on your career?
Vowinkel: It impacted me in many ways, not just in soccer. It allowed me to fit in, meet new people, make connections, and develop as a person. It forced me into a strict schedule where I had either a practice or game every day after school. After soccer, I would have to go home and finish homework. Overall, it put me on a great path to achieve my goals academically and athletically.
Tarmac: What goals do you wish to accomplish in the future regarding your athletic career?
Vowinkel: First of all, I want to finish this season and score a couple goals along the way. As far as long term goals, I would love to make it back to the MLS and make a name for myself there. It’s always been a dream of mine, so it would mean the world to me to get a true shot at the MLS one day. But for now, I’m focused on the present and taking things one step at a time.
A man with high aspirations, Vowinkel continues to push himself every day in order to become the best version of himself.
chstarmac.com 