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Happy Retirement, Peter!

Carol Plunkett and Peter Mattera, 1984

By CAROL PLUNKETT

I chose Peter as my assistant coach the same way I chose my players, by their character, ability, and their desire to work hard and improve. He nailed them all! Working from a meagre budget Peter’s first years were as a volunteer with minimal rewards, but that did not stop him from staying after practice to wash the courts, pick up the balls, or give a player an extra hit. He was ever so patient. I certainly learned a lot working alongside Peter.

As our program grew Peter was invaluable. I could find him in the office doing paperwork, talking to recruits or making travel reservations. I was so happy he could drive the state vans or cars on travel days. They could provide a challenge and we always hoped that the team that used them before us left them clean!

Peter’s behavior around the women athletes was impeccable and he represented our University with dignity. He was always proud to be an Aztec!

After a morning surf, multiple-mile run, he would show up and hit with the players for hours. He really motivated me and everyone else to stay fit and strong. I’m not sure we all loved the run up Cowles Mountain but his fun energetic attitude helped a lot. I’m pretty sure some of our players went on to become distance runners. Peter was the best and I am so happy to have had the opportunity to call him a friend and fellow coach.

Happy retirement, Peter!

Peter Mattera as Assistant Coach in 1985
1985 Assistant Coach Peter Mattera (copy of SDSU photo)