National Football Foundation

A standout in the classroom and on the playing field, Matt Lancaster exemplified every aspect of term "student-athlete" during his highly successful career at West Lafayette High School. 

A duel threat at quarterback, Lancaster threw for 2,349 yards and 30 touchdowns while rushing for 1,129 yards and another 17 touchdowns his senior year. The team captain his senior year, he currently holds most of the offensive records at West Lafayette High School, including career total offense with a combined passing and rushing total of 7,457 yards. Garnering numerous off season accolades, Lancaster was named First Team All-State QB, Big School Player of the Year, Academic All-State and team MVP. A three-time All-Hoosier Conference selection, he is only the third player in school history to accomplish that feat. 

In the classroom, Lancaster compiled an impressive 3.92 grade point average on a 4.0 scale while taking a class schedule loaded with advanced placement and honors courses. He was named to the Academic All-State team in not only football but also in basketball and baseball. A member of the National Honor Society, he made the honor roll every semester and received an Academic Honors Diploma. Lancaster also plays the violin and was a member of the school orchestra for nine years. 

"In my 35 years of teaching and 30 years of coaching I have been associated with some very special players," said West Lafayette head coach Marshall Overley. "As an athlete, Matt is one of the best we have had at West Side. He excels as a leader and is a man of integrity." 

Active in the community, Lancaster participated in hunger hikes, food drives, visiting the elderly, and summer tutoring. He also was a strong participant in his church and youth group. 

Lancaster is attending Illinois State University on a full-football scholarship while a member of the Redbirds team.