Matthew Joseph Wheten / 2000-2020
Matthew was born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. He started playing football at the age of 7 in Sault Minor Football. As he got older his love for the sport started to grow more and more and after graduating from elementary school he decided he wanted to follow in his father's and older brothers' foot steps by going to St. Mary's College to play high school football. He also joined the Sault Sabercats where the brotherhood he'd been a part of, still lives on today. Matthew was known for his infectious laughter, personality and he wouldn't stop until you had a smile on your face. He had a passion for football but he also had a passion for making you smile. Matthew left a mark on everyone he met, even if you only got to experience him once in the locker room. We are trying to give people who didn't know Matt that same mark. If you really knew Matt, you know he had a kind heart and would do anything for his family and his friends!
Matthew passed away tragically, and much too young, on October 21st 2020 as a result of a car accident. He was only 20 years old. Rest easy Matthew and fly high.
About us
Matt Wheten Legacy Crew
Greg Caruso (middle right) and Matt Premo (far back) brought up an idea of creating a football tournament in memory of Matthew Wheten. The Wheten family automatically thought it was a great idea because of how much he loved football. Matthew's mother and father (far right) were absolutely thrilled this idea was even thought of, and they were very eager to help. As well as one of Matthew's 3 brothers, Aaron (middle), wanted to help Greg and Matt as much as possible.
Matt Wheten Legacy Tournament 2021
This tournament is in memory of an avid football here in Sault Ste. Marie. His name is Matthew Wheten. Growing up in a football household, there was nothing Matthew loved more. He was taken from us all too early, so, in his memory, and to keep his legacy alive we decided to bring Sault Ste. Marie a football tournament that everyone cannot wait for each year. Something that can include everyone, and be able to give back local. As Matthew would have wanted; everyone to enjoy this sport and put a smile on everyone's face.
Matt Wheten Legacy Tournament 2022
After a very successful first year of the tournament we were able to donate $8000 to the Twinkie Foundation and our goal for 2022 was to go bigger and be able to donate more. In 2022, our support from volunteers, sponsors, players and spectators was increased and truly made the 2022 tournament run very smooth. With this support we were able to donate $10,000 to the Twinkie Foundation. Once again we were able to keep Matthew's legacy alive by putting a smile on everyone's face.
Matt Wheten Legacy Tournament 2023
After two years of a very successful tournament; in the back of our mind, we were prepared to not see the tournament grow as much as we did. 2023 exceeded our expectations and goals! With the help of the community, sponsors, and players, we were able to fill 19/20 teams and were able to raise $12,000. This was an unreal feeling for the MWLT crew and the Wheten/Arruda Family. We were able to raise the total amount donated to local charities and organizations to $30,000!! Thank you everyone and we cannot wait to go even bigger every year in the future.
