Meet Coach Mattie

  1. Updates

Coach Mattie joined the Playworks team this fall after graduating from Mcalester last spring with a degree in Latin American Studies.  Coach Mattie has now been bringing High-5s, Rock-Paper-Scissors, and laughs to recess for over four months, and she's got the hula hoop skills to prove it.  

What was your favorite recess game growing up: 
Oh!  I loved Kickball as a kid.  We had a big blacktop so I remember getting some really big games going. 

Has it changed now that you're a coach: 
Hmmm… That's hard!  I would have to say 4-square…or soccer.  Those are both super fun. 

What is the best part about being a coach: 
Seeing all of the kids everyday, being able to build meaningful relationships with so many of them, and getting to be a fun role model and mentor.

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go: 
Right now?  Greece.  It just looks so beautiful, and I love the history.  Plus, I'd love a chance to explore the rest of the Mediterranean region.  Turkey and Italy in particular. 

More Updates


three people with Playworks shirts
three people with Playworks shirts

July 28, 2022

A year of social and emotional learning ›

“You can’t do SEL, trauma, or equity work without each other,” Jennette Claassen, Head of Evaluation, Playworks. As Playworks continued to progress on our equity journey, we explored a critical…

August 24, 2021

Playworks Founder Jill Vialet Publishes ‘Why Play Works’ ›

Play brings out the best in every kid. Over the course of 25 years since Jill Vialet founded Playworks, she and her colleagues, as well as researchers and play experts,…

March 25, 2021

Top 6 Games to Play Physically Distant with No Equipment ›

As more and more schools transition back to in-person learning, we know educators are looking for games that are physically-distant and don’t require equipment. The need for play is more…