World 1500m bronze medalist Matthew Centrowitz today announced that he will turn professional and forgo his final year of NCAA eligibility.
The University of Oregon miler had a breakout season in 2011 winning the NCAA 1500m title, USATF 1500m title and the 1500m bronze medal in the IAAF T&F Championships in Daegu, becoming the youngest ever American to medal in the event.
Prior to his 2011 success the 22 year old won three Pac 10 titles and was part of the University of Oregon’s memorable 1-2-3 1500m sweep in the 2010 NCAA T&F Championships.
He currently holds the University of Oregon school records in the 1500m and Distance Medley Relay and was the first UO undergrad since Steve Prefontaine to win a USATF Outdoor Championship.
“I am very grateful to the University of Oregon and the coaching staff for all they have done for me. This important decision has taken me a couple of months to decide on but a decision I feel that is best for me in reaching my upcoming goals”, said Matthew from his base in Eugene where he will stay to complete his sociology major.
Matthew will be represented by PACE Sports Management, the UK based athlete management company headed by Ricky Simms. PACE Sports Management’s roster includes triple Olympic Champion Usain Bolt, triple World Champion Vivian Cheruiyot, World Champions Mo Farah, Linet Masai, Phillips Idowu, Christine Ohuruogu & Jana Pittman.
“We are honored and delighted to work with Matthew and help continue his development as a professional athlete. Matthew was extremely impressive in 2011 and has the ability to be a major force in the event for years to come”, commented Simms.
Matthew is the son of Matt Centrowitz Sr., a two time Olympian, four times US Champion and also a former University of Oregon track star.
Looking to the future, Matthew commented “I am excited to be working with PACE Sports Management who will help me take the right steps in qualifying for the U.S Olympic Team and winning a medal in the Olympic Games in London”.
