What better way to end your collegiate hockey career than by playing every position but the goalie’s? Senior, Matthew Epperly (#19) knows there is no better way to finish up his last year as the changes have resulted in six goals, seven assists, and one game winning goal, making this his best personal season on record. It’s a fitting end for someone whose dedication and love of the game has provided him with multiple opportunities to continually improve as an athlete throughout the years.

    Having been on the ice since he was eight years old, Epperly says the greatest reward has come from the happiness that the game has created, “It has been an outlet for me, whether it was stress or anger, and I’ve honestly just learned a lot from it.”  Throughout middle school and high school, Epperly played for three different teams, often driving almost two hours just to practice. His perseverance paid off though as he was the only student from Bridgeport High School to ever receive a varsity letter in hockey.

    After high school he went on to play for the WVU DII team his freshman year, the DI team his sophomore year, and then back to the DII, which is now the DIII team you know and love, for his final two years. Along with a demanding schedule for hockey, Epperly has remained dedicated to his studies as well. He’s made the Dean’s List and President’s List multiple times during his time at WVU, and in May he will graduate with honors and a degree in Immunology and Medical Microbiology. He will continue his studies at the West Virginia School of Medicine in the fall. 

    He attributes most of his success to his family and their support for all of his endeavors. He is the son of Don and Connie Epperly, who have been present at every game for the last two years.  Also present for every game was his loving girlfriend, Katie Morrison.  Additionally showing their support for him are his brother, Dylan, his grandparents, cousins, various aunts and uncles, and friends.