Matthew Richardson Reveals that Life is More than a Scorecard

Rhonda Jessup, Director of Public Relations

When Matthew Richardson talks about his journey, the conversation often circles back to two constants in his life: golf and God. The University of Mount Olive senior has built his college experience around those anchors, shaping himself into both a competitive athlete and a committed disciple. A finance major with minors in accounting and economics, Richardson is preparing for graduation in May 2026 with a vision of one day competing on the PGA Tour while using his platform to share his faith.

Richardson grew up in Snow Hill, North Carolina, where family, faith, and farm life grounded him. His parents, Wyatt and Tina Richardson, and his sister, Lauren, provided a close-knit foundation that carried into his college years. Sundays were reserved for church, and afterward, it was often straight to the golf course. He laughs as he remembers the moment his dream began.

“I walked into the kitchen at nine years old and told my mom I wanted to play professional golf,” he recalled. “Since then, every year I’ve worked harder and harder to achieve that goal.”

When selecting a college, golf was the driving factor. COVID-19 disrupted his original recruitment plans, but Mount Olive offered an open door. Richardson now sees that timing as providential.

“Mount Olive wasn’t my first choice in the beginning, but now I know it’s exactly where God wanted me to be,” he said. “The people, the experiences, and my involvement in campus ministry have given me a college experience I never could have imagined.”

At UMO, Richardson has thrived academically and personally, shaping a college experience that reflects his values on and off the course. He credits the smaller, student-focused atmosphere with keeping him engaged in the classroom and helping him build close friendships with fellow finance majors. “The professors are always willing to help, and I’ve built strong connections with other finance students who I know will be lifelong friends and professional contacts,” he said.

That sense of connection extends beyond the classroom. Richardson appreciates the supportive campus culture and the diversity of friendships he has formed. “Everyone here is so friendly. Whether it’s student-athletes from other teams or international students I’ve met through athletics, I’ve made friendships that will last a lifetime.”

Faith has also been a defining part of Richardson’s Mount Olive experience. The university’s Christian foundation has shaped his journey through chapel services, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and small groups, all of which have deepened his relationship with Christ.

“As a freshman, I questioned if Mount Olive was really where I wanted to be,” he shared. “But during my second chapel service, it was like God told me, ‘This is where you’re supposed to be.’ Looking back now, I know that was true.”

Today, that faith continues to guide his perspective on the future. “No matter where life takes me, I’ll keep God first. My hope is to play golf professionally, but more importantly, I want my platform to reflect my faith. I want kids growing up in the game to know that your identity is in Christ, not your golf game.”

Representing the Trojans on the golf course has been one of Richardson’s proudest achievements. He calls it an honor to play for UMO and values the camaraderie of his teammates as much as his personal accomplishments.  “There’s nothing better than when the team wins,” he said.

Balancing classes with competition has been demanding, but Richardson embraces the discipline. “Time management is everything,” he explained. “At the end of the day, you just have to take full responsibility and get your work done.” He also carries lessons from the sport into everyday life. “The game teaches you to never give up, because things can change in an instant. That applies to life too.”

Richardson also gained valuable perspective this past summer while interning as a caddy at one of Wilmington’s most prestigious golf courses. The experience was demanding, requiring him to carry two bags in the summer heat while still making time for his own training, but it gave him a window into the professional world.

“I met so many incredible people, including PGA Tour winner Carl Peterson,” he said. “Those connections could be helpful for a future career in finance, but even while I chase professional golf, I plan to caddy on the side.”

Looking ahead, Richardson is determined to pursue his dream of playing on the PGA Tour after he graduates in May 2026. In five to ten years, he envisions himself competing at the highest level of the sport, with his faith as his foundation.

“The most rewarding part of my journey at UMO has been learning that I can get through anything with Christ,” he said. “When people remember me, I hope it’s not just for golf, but also as someone who was kind, humble, hardworking, and a disciple of the Lord.”