Matthias Pizzera has his future all mapped out.
If things go his way, the bright 23-year old plans to be organizing and managing a variety of unique sports events around the world for the highest selling energy drink on the planet.
While some may see that as far-fetched, Pizzera is as determined and focused as it gets.
"I've worked hard to get to where I am now and there's still more to go," said Pizzera. "I've learned a great deal and I'll do whatever it takes to get to my dream job."
After graduating from Brock University in St. Catharines with a four-year Bachelor in Sport Management Degree, Pizzera is now in George Brown's post-grad Sport and Event Marketing Program.
It could also be the most important part of his post-secondary education.
"This program is what I wanted and it's a chance to learn and make some great contacts in a huge market like Toronto," said Pizzera, who plans to use some of his spare time playing soccer for the George Brown Huskies men's team.
Pizzera was born in Montreal, moved with his family to Germany for 13 years before returning to
Whether it was growing up in Germany or returning to Canada and attending high school at Parkview Education Centre in Bridgewater, N.S., Pizzera has had a soft spot for sports.
Chosen Athlete of the Year and Sportsman of the Year in Grade 12, having also played six sports, he also remembers losing a heart-breaker - almost 30 minutes in to extra time - at the Provincial soccer championship in what would be his final high school game.
"I remember the great awards, but also can't forget that loss, 2-1, in extra time," recalled Pizzera who played the violin for six years, thought about a career in architecture and remembers not being allowed to use a cell phone until high school.
Off to Brock, Pizzera was red-shirted for two years, decided to be the Strength and Conditioning coach for the soccer team while focusing the final two years on his Degree.
But, at George Brown, his passion to play soccer has returned – and it will be more on the defensive side as a centre back. - DG
