Matthew Wortham is a proud Toledo native whose journey in sports began at Waite High School, where he graduated in 2005 and also captained both the varsity basketball and golf teams. His leadership and talent on the court and course quickly became evident, setting the stage for a lifetime of dedication to athletics. While still in high school, Matt pursued a career in golf, becoming a caddy at the prestigious Inverness Club in Toledo at the age of 14. Over the course of more than two decades, Matt distinguished himself as one of the top caddies at the club, winning the esteemed "Caddie of the Year" award seven times. His expertise and commitment allowed him to work alongside some of the best golfers in the world, including multiple winners of the U.S. Open, the Masters, and other major tournaments. Matt’s reputation at Inverness is marked by the respect and admiration he earned from both club members and colleagues alike.
Despite his remarkable achievements in golf, Matt’s passion for basketball never waned. He transitioned into coaching right after high school, beginning his career in 2005 as the head freshman coach at Waite High School. His coaching career quickly gained momentum, and after five years, he moved on to become the JV coach at Start High School for six seasons with all six seasons having a winning record, and three city championships appearances (one title).
In 2016, Matt took on the role of head coach for Start High School’s varsity basketball team, where he has since solidified his reputation as a champion, an inspirational leader, and a mentor to countless coaches, and young athletes. Under his guidance, the team has won five Toledo City League Championships, three Sectional Championships, two District Championships, and made two Regional Appearances. Notably, Matt led Start High School to a three-peat in the Toledo City League Championships, and back-to-back District Boys Championships in 2019 and 2020—(first district title in school history) and also the first boys’ team in division one to achieve back to back in Toledo Public Schools in 40 years. Over the next seven years, Matt compiled a phenomenal 128-38 overall record, boasting an 80% winning percentage.
Matt’s coaching philosophy centers on core values of discipline, accountability, brotherhood, playing hard, playing smart, and playing together. These principles have not only driven his teams to success on the court but have also helped shape his players into responsible, driven individuals off the court. His efforts have been recognized with numerous accolades, including Fellowship of Christian athletes coach of the year 2014, recipient of the Chuck Ealey “spirit award in 2022, USMC sports leadership academy “coach MVP” in 2019, four Toledo City League Coach of the Year awards, two District 7 Coach of the Year awards, and a Northwest Ohio D1 Coach of the Year honor. Additionally, he has coached four League Players of the Year and boasts a 98% graduation rate among his players, underscoring his commitment to their holistic development.
Beyond his achievements as a coach, Matt has made a significant impact through his community involvement. In 2018 he founded **Hoops & Loops for Kids**, a non-profit organization dedicated to using sports as a tool for social impact. The organization focuses on building character, fostering teamwork, and creating positive change in underserved communities. Through various programs and initiatives, Hoops & Loops for Kids provides young people with opportunities to engage in healthy activities, scholarships, develop life skills, and become leaders in their communities.
Matt's vision is to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has access to the benefits that come with playing sports. Matt's commitment to his players extends beyond the basketball season. He has organized and led his team to participate in tournaments across the country, including in Chicago, Florida(twice), California, Arizona, North Carolina, and over 80 summer leagues, shootouts and camps during his tenure. These experiences have allowed his players to compete against top high school teams nationwide, gaining invaluable experience without any financial burden on the kids or their families.
Many inner city schools have limited resources, but Matt did not use this as an excuse to not be able to provide opportunities for his student athletes. Using his network, drive, and work ethic Matt led the charge and raised over $200,000 in six years at the helm. The funds necessary for trips were raised through various fundraising events, volunteer activities, and community service initiatives, golf outings, showcasing Matt's dedication to providing his players with life-changing opportunities.
One of the standout examples of his team's community involvement is their volunteer work at local concerts and sporting events, including over 50 games per year at the Toledo Mud Hens and Walleye stadiums. These experiences have taught the team important lessons about hard work, teamwork, and customer service while also fostering a sense of camaraderie and community spirit.
Matt holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Toledo, one older sister Shawntel Wortham, three older brothers Jermain, Ben, & Mark Wortham who is his identical twin brother, and a younger brother Rico Wortham. Matt also is a beloved father of two year old son Sire Wortham, and continues to be a respected figure in both the sports and local communities. His dedication to excellence, both on and off the court, has made him a role model for young athletes and a pillar of the Toledo community. Matt's unwavering commitment to his players, his family, and his community has earned him the respect and admiration of all who know him, making him a true inspiration and leader.
