FNF Southern Quality Ford Dealers Scholar-Athlete of the Week: St. Paul’s Matthew Blanchard

St. Paul’s Matthew Blanchard has led by example both on and off the field as the Wolves’ starting center, boasting a 4.36 GPA and a 33 on the ACT.

“A lot of it is putting your effort toward every opportunity there. Time management is also a big key,” Blanchard said. “Having lots of difficult opportunities really teaches you the importance of staying on topic and reaching for those unattainable goals to make them attainable at some point.”

His ability to thrive in multiple areas has provided a good example for his teammates and has helped Matthew grow individually.

“I think the stresses that football and school bring can teach you how to be a better person. At some point, working hard on and off the field becomes second nature. It blends together at some point and once it clicks, it clicks,” Blanchard said.

“That’s what is great about him. Not only is he a leader in the classroom, but he’s a leader on the field,” St. Paul’s head coach Ken Sears said. “He puts the same effort on the field as he does the classroom, and that’s why he’s an outstanding young man.”

After this season, Matthew is hanging up the cleats and focusing on school full-time. He plans on majoring in biology at Ole Miss and going on the pre-med track to become an anesthesiologist.

St. Paul’s Matthew Blanchard, our Friday Night Football Scholar Athlete of the Week, brought to you by your Southern Quality Ford dealers.