Happy Edwards

LEFT: The Classical Academy’s Matthew Edwards, who has signed to compete at the U.S. Air Force Academy, smiles as a presenter talks about the senior’s accomplishments during The Classical Academy’s signing day event, April 8, 2024. RIGHT: Jordan Wenger, who is heading to Oral Roberts University, smiles as he hears his coach speak about his shoes and attire at The Classical Academy’s signing day event.

 photos by Marcus Hill, THE tribune

This was a no-brainer for Matthew Edwards.

Edwards couldn’t sign his National Letter of Intent for Air Force Academy fast enough.

The TCA runner will have the opportunity to continue his family’s Air Force legacy, while getting to run for a cause greater than himself.

The cross country and track and field star made it official Monday during The Classical Academy’s signing day event.

Edwards said he’s “excited” for next year.

“From my grandpa to my dad, we’ve always had a rich history of people in our family in the Air Force,” Edwards said. “My grandpa, he didn’t go to the academy, but he served in the Air Force. Then seeing my dad growing up in the Air Force. That was a model in showing me that was a great way to live life and a meaningful way to serve your country and help those around you.”

However, as a junior, life nearly jeopardized Edwards’ shot to compete.

Edwards had stress fractures in his left leg, which halted his training and required him to miss a portion of the cross-country season.

But he said, “A set back is apart of the journey.”

“That (injury) did make me a little nervous, but having such reliant and faithful coaches and family who supported me was huge,” Edwards said. “That could have been career ending. But I decided I didn’t want that. Also, (Air Force coach Ryan) Cole had unwavering faith in me. He knew I was injured, but he knew I’d get better.”

Titans coach Matthew Norton serenaded Edwards during the ceremony and listed a slew of Edwards’ accomplishments to the audience.

Those successes include, a two-time state champion in cross country, the fastest 5K time in Titans’ cross-country history, and a 3,200-meter state championship in track and field.

Norton also mentioned that at the Arcadia Invitational in California, on April 6, Edwards set the sea-level school record for the 2-mile race at 8 minutes, 54.37 seconds.

That stat garnered a round of applause and brought a smile to Edwards’ face.

But Edwards’ most notably beamed when Norton mentioned the importance of signing with Air Force.

“Being able to follow in your dad’s footsteps in that way is amazingly special and an awesome accomplishment and opportunity,” Norton said. “I know how much that means to Matthew and his family. … We’re proud of you and looking forward to these next few weeks.”