AIM HIGH: New Palestine's Brown commits to Air Force

Matthew Brown had a feeling he would wind up at a service academy. This week, he made it official, as the New Palestine defensive end/tight end committed to the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He chose the Falcons over Army and Navy, but he also had offers pour in from Indiana State, Illinois State and Western Illinois, as well. Brown, a senior, told Sideline Prep Sports Report the Air Force Academy gave him a feeling he didn’t have with other schools. “I chose the Air Force Academy personally because I felt something towards them that I didn’t feel towards other schools. The coaching staff has done an amazing job staying in constant contact and teaching me more about the USAFA. They also have some job opportunities that come after college that really intrigue me,” Brown said. With two Class 5A state championships to his credit, Brown can now turn his attention to helping coach Kyle Ralph and the Dragons make a run at a three-peat on the Class 5A level. “We could do something that no other class at New Palestine High School has ever done. Winning three state championships in a row would just mean the world to us. So, if there was an ultimate goal for this season, that would definitely be it,” Brown said. And he can start the title chase in July with his college choice in the rearview. “Now that the selection process is over, it does relieve a lot of the stress that came with recruiting. Knowing that I’m committed before the season starts is the best feeling in the world. Especially knowing the fact that I get to continue doing what I love at the next level. I’m very grateful for that because some kids don’t get that chance,” Brown told Sideline Prep Sports Report.