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As a walk-on in 1979, Matt Di Dio became a three-year football letterwinner (1981-83) and earned Associated Press Honorable Mention All-American recognition as a senior.
In 1983, Di Dio led all three NCAA Divisions with a school-record 13 interceptions, a mark that still stands today. He also broke up eight passes, setting the single season record with 21 passes defended.
Voted to the 1983 All-GLIAC First Team, Di Dio was named WSU's Team MVP after recording 57 tackles (29 solo, 28 assisted) and 13 interceptions. His longest career interception return was a 45-yard return in his final collegiate game at Kentucky State. His 13 career interceptions rank ninth in program history.
The 1983 "Motor City Hitmen" defense ranked 14th nationally in total defense and eighth in scoring defense surrendering just 10.5 points per game.
During his first three seasons, Di Dio contributed on all special teams and earned the nickname "Mad Dog." He also played wide receiver, catching 20 passes for 275 yards in 1982.
To my fellow teammates – "through thick and thin we were a band of misfit brothers that silenced all the naysayers!"
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