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In the right place at the right time

Hernando Heat star Matthew Campbell is a "smart player."

By DEREK J. LaRIVIERE, Times Correspondent
Published January 11, 2008

After starring for the Hernando Heat, Matthew Campbell looks primed to launch his recent success into high school glory and possibly more.

The leading scorer for the Heat the past two seasons, Matthewis in eighth grade at Powell Middle School. He is an all-around athlete who plays for Spring Hill Dixie Baseball during the summer and for the Powell football team in the fall.

"I think that Matthew has an advantage because he's such a smart player," said David Campbell, his father. "He's works so hard to understand the little parts of the game, so he's always in the right place at the right time."

Even while playing those other sports and getting straight A's in school, Matthew is quick to admit that he loves soccer above all else.

"I just love how fast-paced of a game it is," Matthew said. "When you're out there, it never stops."

There are many to credit for his development, including his parents, David and Kari Campbell. David Campbell assists on the Heat staff.

Heat coach Steve DeInnocentiis also has played a large role in Matthew's improvement on the field and has been coaching himsince he was 5.

As a result, Matthew has been playing with DeInnocentiis' son, James, for a while. The chemistry between the two was never more evident this season than when the Heat swept its two holiday tournaments.

The most recent tournament victory came at the seventh annual Dunedin Stirling Shootout.

"These tournaments are such good experience," Matthew said. "The competition is very tough, and we all get tested every time we take the field."

During the fifth annual Halloween Havoc Tournament at Lakewood Ranch in October, Matthew's ability to finish around the net helped lead the Heat to a first-place finish, going 4-0 with victories over club teams from Central Pasco United, Charlotte United and Wesley Chapel.

In the championship final, the Heat delivered a 3-1 win over RSL Florida.

Last season, Matthew led the Heat with 29 goals. While still leading the team this time around, he has five goals in seven games.

"Matthew has been so good for us for so long," said Steve DeInnocentiis. "He's led us in scoring for the past two seasons, and he's such a huge part of our success."

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[Last modified January 10, 2008, 21:13:26]