Coach Corbin Quote: Matt will be used in a utility role as a backup second baseman and shortstop. He has continued to get stronger physically and needs to be patient this year because he is playing behind experienced and older players.

2006: Redshirted. Played for the Fulton Railroaders of the Kentucky-Illinois-Tennessee League over the summer … Batted .278 with four doubles and 12 RBI in 33 games.

High School: Was an all-region choice in 2004-05 at Mount Juliet High School … Also earned all-district honors in 2003-05 … Helped lead school to district championship in 2005 and region championship in 2003 … Also named to Team Tennessee in 2004 … A four-year letterwinner and starter … Played for the Nashville Thunder in summer ball and helped lead them to a 27-6 record.

Personal: Matthew Edward Shao … Born 11/5/86 …. Son of Stephen and Elizabeth Shao … Has a sister, Sarah and brother, Stephen who is a senior pitcher for the Commodores … Favorites include the movies Team America and The Legend of Bagger Vance; David Eckstein, Maria Sharapova, Matt Damon, Dave Matthews and The Family Guy … Most memorable athletic experience was his last high school at bat in which he hit a home run.