Messenger photo by Britt Kudla: Humboldt's Caden Matson closes in on a tackle during a Class 3A state semifinal game against Harlan in Cedar Falls last November.

HUMBOLDT — The statistics and the success were enough for Humboldt’s Caden Matson to be considered among Class 3A’s very best football players.

The senior quarterback and defensive back distanced himself from the field, though, thanks to something Wildcat head coach Derrick Elman could never fully quantify.

Matson was recently named the Iowa Football Coaches Association Class 3A player of the year, joining Southeast Valley’s Aaron Graves (2A) in an elite circle of honorees from the Messenger area.

Humboldt had its first undefeated regular season since 1990, with Matson helping to captain the ship. The 185-pounder threw for 2,611 yards and rushed for 1,636 more as the Wildcats (11-1 overall) reached the 3A state semifinal round. He tallied 49 total offensive touchdowns.

Defensively, Matson had 59 tackles, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries.

“Caden is one of those players that doesn’t come around very often,” Elman said. “He’s very athletic, but on top of that, is one of the fiercest competitors I’ve ever been around. No matter what sport he’s playing, he will do whatever it takes to help the them have success.

“I think Caden is proof that if you’re willing to put work in, good things will happen.”

Matson was surprised by the news, given the other elite candidates up for the award in the 3A ranks.

“When Coach Elman first called and told me, I was honestly just speechless,” Matson said. “I had no idea what to say other than ‘thank you.’ I am so incredibly grateful that the coaches around the state see me as this type of player.

“It’s just one of those times when you can’t describe what you’re feeling…there were so many emotions going through me at once.”

Matson recently accepted a preferred walk-on offer from Iowa State University. He will likely be a defensive back for head coach Matt Campbell’s Cyclones.

“To do what Caden did at the quarterback position this past season is almost unheard of,” Elman said. “I can’t tell you how proud I am of him, for the way he not only played, but led our team to success in the 2021 football campaign.

“When I came here four years ago, Caden was just entering his freshman year. It was easy to see then that he was a leader, and that he had the potential to do great things. Having Caden as a leader not only on our football team, but in our school the last four seasons has helped change the culture, and will have a lasting impact for years to come.”

Matson was quick to thank his support system for an honor he felt extended far beyond his name on a certificate.

“All of the credit goes to not only Coach Elman but the whole coaching staff; every single one of my teammates from the top to the bottom; and the community for always having never-ending support,” Matson said. “I am so thankful for everything all of those people did, which allowed me to just simply go out and play football every Friday night.”

Elman was always impressed by Matson’s determination and ability to make things happen, but that’s not what he’ll remember most.

“Caden is special because he never lets anything get in the way of the team,” Elman said. “He’s the first to talk to younger kids after a game, and he’s the first to talk about what he needs to do better.

“I feel he’s successful because he’s made a point to go out and do what it takes every day with a positive attitude and a relentless drive. That’s what sets him apart.”