Video Shout-Out from Matthew Hodgson

Hey, I’m Matthew Hodgson. I’m a PERTH WILDCATS and Australian Boomers basketballer, psychology graduate and mentor with a passion for inspiring people to overcome adversity and achieve their goals.  Here’s what I’m known for in the sporting arena.

I’ve been playing at the highest level of Australian basketball since 2015, first with the Adelaide 36ers, to the Brisbane Bullets, and most recently with the Perth Wildcats in the NBL.

I’ve had the privilege of representing my country with the Australian Boomers numerous times, and played an important role in our Asia Cup gold medal win in 2017. 

My career as an elite athlete started as a scholarship holder with the Australian Institute of Sport in 2009 and then as a Division 1 USA College Athlete from 2009 to 2014. 

But I’m much more than an athlete. 

Preparing for life after sport is important to me. I am well aware that any day on the court could be my last.

I graduated from St Mary’s College in California with a degree in Psychology. Since then, I have completed my postgraduate diploma at Monash University while playing professionally. I am one Masters degree away from being a registered psychologist.

While studying the mind, I focus on physical health too. Life as a professional athlete has given me many insights about strength, conditioning and the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

I’m grateful for my incredible mentors, and I take any opportunity to share my story and what I’ve learned to help others on their journeys.

I live by these values.

Persistence

Never giving up, being consistent and pushing through challenges.

Growth

Finding creative and sustainable ways to improve in all areas of life.

Meaning

Living a life of significance and impact.

I have an impactful story to tell on these key themes and topics.

Navigating Through Adversity

After winning a college scholarship and having early success, I struggled to perform and was relegated to the bench. Add to that a terrible injury, and I was told I’d never play professional basketball again. I had to be incredibly honest with myself and change unproductive behaviours and mindsets.

Perseverance

After a lacklustre college career and injury, the odds were stacked against me to get a professional contract. I share the story of how I made it happen, and changed the course of my future.

High Performance

Achieving high performance is surrounded by outdated clichés and embellished narratives. I have learned the truth about high-performing individuals and teams, and would love to share it.

The audience I connect with most.

• Corporate

• Athletes of all ages

• Parents of young athletes

I’m available for:

• Guest speaking

• Events and appearances

• Skills clinics

• Brand partnerships