Athlete of the Week: Matthew Hansen

Nine-year-old Matthew Hansen won a first-place trophy for forms and a bronze medal for sparring at the Taekwondo Grand Prix IV Oct. 15 at Lakewood Ranch High School. The Willis Elementary fourth-grader, who trains at the Lakewood Ranch Taekwondo Academy, won his first, first-place trophy at a multiple-school competition. Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

What was your reaction when you won your trophy?
I was proud because I won first place in forms.

How did you get into taekwondo?
I started when I was 7 years old. I was interested in taking karate. I watched a green belt class, and I decided I wanted to do it.

What do you enjoy the most about taekwondo?
Breaking boards. I just like breaking boards.

What’s the toughest part about taekwondo?
Remembering everything. When you get to black belt, you have to do all of the forms and philosophies.
Do you have a favorite subject in school?
Math. I like working with numbers.

If you could go anywhere on vacation, where would it be and why?
Walt Disney World. They have lots of games and it’s really fun.

Do you have a favorite food?
Subway turkey sandwiches.

What’s your favorite TV show?
“America’s Funniest Videos.” They have lots of the funniest videos.

Who’s your favorite superhero?
Superman. He can fly and he has laser vision.

If you could play one other sport for a day, what would it be?
Soccer. It’s really fun and active.

Do you have any brothers or sisters?
I have one brother, Nathan, who is 6 years old.

Who is your biggest role model?
My instructor, Kyle Goins. He’s very nice and kind and honest.