I managed to grab a moment with Matt Steven (pictured here with Emma Berry in a 12ft skiff) just after his team snagged the silver in the 49ers. I was curious to hear how he was feeling about his Olympic adventure and what it was like to sail on the world’s biggest stage.
From the sounds of it, Matt was soaking up the atmosphere in a lively, bustling bar, still riding the high of the Olympic experience. “It was a pretty amazing experience—never thought I’d find myself at the Olympics, let alone coaching a team to a medal!” Matt shared, still in awe of how his coaching journey has unfolded. It all began with a nudge from JJ [Josh Junior] in 2019, which eventually steered him toward the 49ers. Drawing on his solid background in 18ft skiff sailing, Matt brought his expertise to developing the squad in New Zealand, building on Pete and Blair’s success. As the team improved, the results kept getting better and better. “We knew a medal was on the cards,” Matt said, “and the relief to get the job done on the day was awesome.”
But it’s not all 49ers in Matt’s world. He’s also been quietly supporting his fiancée, Erica Dawson, who, along with Micah Wilson, sailed the Nacra to a bronze medal. “I’m more of a supportive fiancée than a coach there,” Matt joked, but it’s clear he’s proud as punch of their achievements.
Matt is particularly stoked to have waved the Wellington flag at the Olympics, especially since the region’s representation was a bit lighter than other years. “It’s an honor to keep Wellington on the Olympic map,” he said.
As the summer kicks in for us, Matt is eager to catch up with everyone at the end of August and September to share his stories from the Games. For those who aren’t in the loop, Matt—joint winner of the Sailor of the Year at the Volvo Excellence Awards in 2018—got his start at WBBC as a young sailor, and cut his skiff teeth through the 12ft skiffs. From there, he went on to become a seriously successful 18ft skiff sailor (understatement of the century).
Congratulations, Matt—epic stuff indeed. And if you happen to see Terry Steven, you know, the guy who sometimes drives our chase boats—that’s Matt’s dad. So, be sure to give him a pat on the back too!
Mel P.
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