NFL star Scott Matlock supports foster families in Idaho with “Cleats for a Cause”

BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) – The Idaho native and former Boise State Bronco is sharing his support of a local nonprofit at some of the most famous football fields across the country. Scott Matlock is one of the most versatile players in the NFL, playing both offense and defense for the Los Angeles Chargers.

Hard work and dedication got him to where he is, even though at one point in his life he wasn’t sure what his future would be. After the deaths of both his parents, Matlock entered the Idaho foster care system at age thirteen. He went through several homes before being placed with a family in Homedale, where he says he felt adjusted and at home. His older brother played football for the University of Idaho and Matlock wanted to follow in his footsteps as a college baller, so he played for Boise State, where his love for the area grew.

Matlock said, “I was born and raised in Idaho and Boise will always be my home. No matter where I end up or which team I play for. I have always been committed to being an ambassador for the City of Boise and the State of Idaho, no matter where my travels take me.

His dedication and love for the region inspired him when he decided to contribute cleats to an NFL awareness initiative. The campaign allows participating NFL players to select any charitable organization and receive soccer cleats designed to support their cause. For Matlock, that was the local foster care nonprofit Freedom Youth Foundation. Matlock said, “I’m able to use my platform, as far as you know, the NFL and my success, to potentially help you meet others, and that alone is enough for me.”

The Freedom Youth Foundation’s mission to empower foster youth through sports, financial literacy and mentoring resonates with Matlock, who says it comes naturally. The design of the cleats played a big role as they took both the nonprofit organization and Boise State and the Chargers into consideration.

The cleats made their debut on Sunday the 1st at Georgia as the Chargers won against the Atlanta Falcons. Matlock said he is excited to see how this partnership can grow and create a lasting impact.