CFAES Give Today
Ohio 4-H Youth Development

Ohio State University Extension

CFAES

Faces of Ohio 4-H — Matt Andrews

Matt Andrews

Each month, we highlight an Ohio 4-H alum who has an amazing story to share—from their personal experience in 4-H to how they have given back to the program. This month, we feature Matt Andrews, one of the radio voices of The Ohio State Buckeyes and a proud alumnus of Fayette County 4-H.

Andrews was a 10-year 4-H member is the Fayette Land and Livestock 4-H Club. “I showed market hogs, breeding gilts, and, for a handful of years, market sheep at Andrews (left) outside his family's sheep pen at the Fayette County Fair.the Fayette County and Ohio State Fairs,” he said. “Winning Grand Champion Market Barrow at the Fayette County Fair during my second year in 4-H was definitely a highlight from my time in the program. It’s a moment I’ll never forget.”

After aging out of the 4-H program, Andrews attended The Ohio State University where he studied broadcast journalism. He also worked as a program assistant at the Fayette County Extension office for two summers while in college. “I assisted with all aspects of summer 4-H programming Andrews (number 413) showing his sheep at the Fayette County Fair.during those two years, whether it be helping at 4-H camp; organizing and conducting judging, shows, awards, and sales at the county fair; or emceeing various events. I even had the opportunity to announce shows in the O’Neil Swine Barn during the Ohio State Fair.”

For Andrews, this role gave him valuable professional experience as he developed his plans and dreams for the future. “The responsibilities that came along with this position helped me mature and grow. In many ways I cut my professional teeth while working at the Fayette County Extension Andrews (right) before an OSU football game.office. Many of the important things I learned there still help me in my world as an adult today.”

“I have worked in sports broadcasting since graduating from Ohio State and am currently employed as a Radio Voice of The Ohio State Buckeyes.” Andrews interviewing an OSU football player after a game.Andrews serves as a sideline reporter and interviewer for football, a play-by-play broadcaster for women’s basketball, and is the broadcaster for baseball at Ohio State. He also handles radio duties on The Ohio State Radio Network and has a daily radio shift at 97.1 The Fan in Columbus, a flagship radio station for The Ohio State Buckeyes.

“4-H taught me many life lessons over the years. I developed a strong work ethic and learned the importance of dedication, perseverance, and helping others. My experiences in 4-H set the standard for other organizations I was involved in.” He encourages youth to take advantage of all the opportunities offered through 4-H. “Experiences are so important, so don’t forget to take a chance on different trips or programs as you grow in your 4-H years. Absorb as much as you can. These 4-H moments will help you grow as you mature and develop.”