Image shows Matt Loftus stood smiling at the camera with his arms crossed wearing his GB Mens jerseyEach Thursday we want to put the spotlight on a person involved with goalball – from players, officials to coaches, or anyone!

We want to use our online platforms so the Goalball Family can get to know each other a bit better ahead of getting back on the court and playing our sport again!

This week we caught up with Matt Loftus!

What club do you play for or coach?

I play for Northern Allstars and GB Men

How did you discover goalball?

I went to a disability exhibition at St James Park and picked up a leaflet advertising goalball sessions at Newcastle College. I went along and…………!

Action shot of Matt Loftus mid-save whilst playing for the Northern Allstars

Is there a particular song, artist or genre that you listen to before a tournament to get in the mood? Or anything you’re loving at the moment?

Not particularly, normally we just listen to a wide range of genres of music.

Do you have any pre-game superstitions or rituals?

No, just be happy!

Do you have a favourite post-match meal?

To be honest I’m always on a seafood diet, as in, I see food and I eat food!

Which goalball player do you admire the most and why?

There isn’t just 1 individual player who inspires me, there are many within the #GoalballFamily, but I suppose the most inspirational players are my teammates.

Image shows Matt stood with his Northern Allstars teammates following a tournament in 2019. They are all proudly wearing their medals

Outside of goalball, what other hobbies/sports do you do?

I am a big football fan so like going to matches – I support Newcastle United.

Finally, what place, anywhere in the world, is on your bucket list to visit and why?

I want to go to Las Vegas to sample the ‘culture’!

If you would like to be featured on a future ‘Featured Thursday’, please send us a message on social media or via email: enquiries@goalballuk.com

To check out the rest of the articles from our ‘Featured Thursday’ series please use the following link Goalball UK – Featured Thursday