Thank you to our friend, Hector Trujillo, for this 1904 FC update. Hector Trujillo had the opportunity to speak with recently signed 1904 FC playe
Thank you to our friend, Hector Trujillo, for this 1904 FC update.
Hector Trujillo had the opportunity to speak with recently signed 1904 FC player Matt Hurlow. The 27-year-old native of Escondido, CA had a stellar career as an undergraduate playing for the Chico State University Wildcats before moving on to play for teams like San Diego Zest, San Francisco City FC and Phoenix Rising where he played alongside international greats such as Didier Drogba and Omar Bravo. Now competing in NISA for his new team, Hurlow is expected to be a focal point this season for the team lead by new head coach Scott Morrison which has won two of its first three matches.
Q&A with Matt Hurlow
SN: How did the process come about that you came back to SD to play for 1904 FC?
MH: Dallin (Cutler) had given me a call and sort of talked about how 1904 was going in a new direction. They’re looking to bring in experience and players that can win and I feel like they’ve done that. It’s a good group of guys and I’m just happy to be here and help the team in any way I can.
Overcoming injuries
SN: What was your experience like trying to overcome any obstacles/injuries since your time playing for San Diego Zest?
MH: I’ve had a rough spell with injuries after Phoenix. I had pulled my hamstring and broke my foot within a year in a half. I decided to go back to Chico State and get classes done and I stayed in the gym on crutches and slowly worked my way back. I think the biggest thing for me was mentally coming back after that. It was difficult time in my life but I think it made me stronger and I found a new appreciation for how much I love soccer and being part of a team.
Seven Days South of the Border
SN: Can you talk about your time trying out for Ensenada FC (Liga Balompié Mexicano)….what was that like?
MH: I was out in Mexico for a week, and the team just never found it’s footing. They never formed, so it was a good experience, but nothing came from it. I have been playing in cash tournaments all around the US, so I’ve been getting lots of games in and playing a lot too so that helps.
“I think I can be a leader”
SN: Do you know a little bit about the 1904 FC players or coaches from before? What do you expect the rest of the season?
MH: I’m coming in expecting to win. I think I can be a leader and help get this team going in the right directions. The lads on the squad are great players. I’ve played with more than half of them, and we seem to all be on the same page. I’ve known Dallin [Cutler] for a while and played with him, but I just met [head coach] Scott [Morrison]. He’s been great so far. He’s very knowledgeable about the game, and is a player’s coach for sure. I think he’ll do a great job this year and I’m really happy to be here.
“We look forward to a great season”
SN: Any final words for the San Diego fan base now that you are back?
MH: I want to thank you all for supporting this team and we’re going out there to perform for you guys. We train very hard during the week and we owe you guys everything we have to put on the best show we can. We look forward to a great season.
photos courtesy of 1904 FC — thank you!
