This is Matt’s first year guiding on the Ocoee but his 14th year on the river. Matt’s father has worked on the Ocoee River for 30 years and Matt grew up on the Ocoee. Matt paddles kayaks, surfs, snow boards and when he’s not playing attends the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.
Matt is one of the most energetic and entertaining guides on the Ocoee River but his trips are unpredictable. He acquired his nickname The Phantom by randomly disappearing from the back of his raft. Not to worry. Matt continues to yell his commands and guide his crews even when he’s out of the raft.
Life Philosophy: “The surest sign that intelligent life exists elsewhere in the universe is that none of it has tried to contact us.” – Calvin and Hobbes