Mathewson a big two-way threat for Libertyville

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Luke Mathewson was all-conference defensive lineman for the Wildcats. | Rob Dicker~Sun-Times Media

Updated: August 25, 2011 3:38AM

He’s always moving and making things happen. Luke Mathewson’s relentless approach figures to benefit Libertyville High School on both sides of the football.

The 6-foot-5, 235-pound senior will line up at both tight end and defensive end when the Wildcats entertain Barrington to begin the 2011 season at 7:30 p.m. Friday.

“I love his attitude and how he brings it every day,” said Cats coach Randy Kuceyeski. “He has great energy, and he’s a real hard-working kid with a high motor. He has a real passion for the game, and it shows in how he plays.”

A return to Friday Night Lights has special significance for Mathewson, who suffered a season-ending injury in Week 4 last season.

“He’s 100 percent right now,” Kuceyeski said. “It’s the healthiest he’s been in two years, and we’re hoping to keep it that way.”

Mathewson can’t wait to strap it up — especially on the offensive side of things.

“I like being able to push people around and make some blocks,” Mathewson said. “I also look forward to running some routes and catching some passes. Being a bigger guy and still being able to catch the ball is pretty fun.”

The big target will receive passes from senior quarterback Hutch Herchenbach. The veteran won the job after a tough battle with junior Jack Deichl.

“I really like both of them,” said Mathewson of Herchenbach and Deichl. “Whichever guy we go with will be a good choice.”

Opting to use Mathewson at tight end figures to be a good move, too.

“He puts in the extra time to improve his receiving skills,” Kuceyeski noted. “He’s a real student of the game, and he watches a lot of film. It’s great to have him back on offense.”

Mathewson also is ready to create some havoc from the defensive end slot.

“I love his size and strength,” Kuceyeski said. “We hope his height will make it tough for quarterbacks to put the ball over him. He’s very smart, and he’s always in position to make a play. “

As No. 45 takes his spot on the D-line, he’s keeping his job in perspective.

“Defensive end can be a playmaking spot,” Mathewson said. “But I also know we have awesome linebackers and safeties behind me. I can fill the gap and let the guys behind me make plays.”

But when the opportunity arises, Mathewson will be ready to make an impact.

“I like to use my speed and use some power moves,” he said. “I want to get to the QB and do my job.”

Although the Wildcats have struggled in recent years, Mathewson has enjoyed every moment of his time at Libertyville.

“The coaches have made this a great experience for me,” he said. “Their main goal is not always just to win. They want to make us better people.”

Mathewson and Co. hope to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2008. The season is the 18th and final one for Kuceyeski.

“Being his last year and the fact he’s fighting a battle with cancer is real motivating for us,” Mathewson said. “We want to make it as special as we can for him.”

The Cats will certainly sport a unique look for the opener. The team will be wearing camouflage jerseys to honor past Wildcats who have served in the military.

“We can’t sell enough T-shirts,” said Kuceyeski, aware all proceeds will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. “We’ve sold 200 already and have another 400 on order. The kids love it.”

Mathewson hopes the fans — and scouts — will take a liking to his game.

“I know there are a few schools interested in me,” said Mathewson of prospective college suitors. “The first couple of games will decide what I’m going to do.”