No, that's not Mat's Civil War Veteran Great-Great Grandfather, that's the Best Man. Joe and Mat first met when Mat walked up the steps of Phi Tau, looking to join and all Joe said was "you like hockey?" From there, a friendship was born and eventually a brotherhood as well. They have spent many nights having a few beers, just talking about life, and it's nights like those that really brought these two closer. They would always be up to something, whether it's pretending to be Australian down in Louisville, trying to get Shanoudi to come to a party on the "South side of campus", or .50 Genesee's from The Score, these two have been a tandem. Joe has been a consistent figure in Mat's life and one of the most positive influences. Joe is undoubtably one of the nicest and most genuine human beings on earth. He always goes out of his way to make everybody around him happy and if you're fortunate enough to be around Joe, you'll always leave in a great mood and with a smile on your face. There was never any doubt in Mat's mind that Joe would be chosen for this role and he is beyond grateful to have someone like Joe in his life.

Tyler and Mat were always destined to be best friends. They were born in the same hospital merely a month and a half apart, and it just so happened that both their parents were friends as well. Mat and Tyler often enjoyed sitting outside by the fire, or screaming at zombies on COD until 3am (sorry Shar). They bonded early on over their love of hockey and baseball, and that carried over into a lifelong friendship. When they weren't stealing stop signs, or walking to Sheetz late at night (again, sorry Shar), they enjoyed their time on drumline together and watching each other grow into the great men they are today. Tyler and his family have been monumental in who Mat has become and he is so grateful for his second family. Mat had the privilege of being in Tyler's wedding, and seeing Tyler become a great Father, setting the bar for what Mat hopes to be for his own kids one day. Tyler has been beside Mat for every major life event so far, so it's only fitting he's there one more time. You'll hear Tyler belting out every song that gets played at the reception, so don't be afraid to sing along with him.

A man who is more chicken wing than human, Michael aka Shanoudi is often the life of the party. They first met when Mat joined Phi Tau, and later Mat had the honor of serving on exec under Shanoudi when he was President. From that desire to lead, grew a friendship and a trust that still carries on to this day. After graduation they will still go on Florida/Disney trips in the Spring and have a blast drinking around the world. Now Shanoudi spends his days as Mat's degenerate gambling and fantasy football advice giver (Man, he loves football), despite the fact Mat never listens. Shanoudi is one of the most selfless people you will ever meet, and he always goes out of his way to assure that those around him are having a good time. Even if Shanoudi doesn't know you, he will go out of his way to make you feel comfortable and make you laugh. He is one of a kind and Mat is truly honored to be fortunate enough to call him his brother, and to have him by his side on the big day.

As is evident by his picture, Brian always brings good beer and good times whenever he is around. Brian and Mat were both Phi Tau's and graduated from The University of Akron in 2015. Since then, Brian and Mat have had a very close relationship that stems from their love of sports, despite Brian always chastising Mat for liking Boston sports (and the Panthers). Brian has been there for Mat through some tough times, and most importantly the great ones as well. Brian is the type of guy to drive almost 4 hours to WV with his car smoking, only to realize he left his oil cap off, just to hangout with his friend for his birthday. Mat is extremely lucky to call Brian a friend and a brother. Mat was honored to be chosen as a Groomsman for Brian's wedding, and Mat couldn't imagine his day without Brian up there with him either.

Jon moved next door to Mat when they were about 4 or 5 years old and they became friends instantly. Jon and Mat would trade Pokémon cards, sports cards, and sometimes punches when they would argue. But they would always makeup and probably walk to Sheetz (with Megan in tow), or play basketball in the driveway until it got too dark to see. In high school they were on the Drumline and the wrestling team together where they created a ton more memories. Jon's family has been a second family to Mat. He is forever grateful for all the carpooling to and from both wrestling and band. But most importantly for all the life lessons that Jon has used as a Father and Husband, and Mat soon will as well. Mat could not have asked for a better teammate or friend in life so it is only fitting that Jon be chosen as a Groomsman. Don't let the sunglasses and hat fool you, Jon is not inconspicuous and you'll be sure to find him out on the dance floor all night.

The only things Ricky loves more than that pizza roll, is college football and baseball. This is where Ricky and Mat's friendship started, shortly after Mat joined Phi Tau. Ultimately, Ricky would end up becoming Mat's Big, which created a bond between them that would last a lifetime. Throughout their time together at Akron, Mat and Ricky always had a great time together. Whether it was nights on the valley bus, Manny's, or beer pong at the house, Ricky and Mat always had a top 5 night together (top 5, top 5). It doesn't matter if they're right down the hall, or thousands of miles away from each other, Mat knows he can count on Ricky for anything. Ricky is one that truly goes out of his way for his friends and will always have their back no matter what. Mat could not have imagined this day without Ricky by his side. When you hear some 2000s screamo at the reception, expect Ricky to be in the middle of the dance floor belting his heart out.

Unfortunately no, David will not be the one in the wedding dress on the big day, but he will be one of Mat's Groomsmen. David and Mat first met at Phi Tau when David was the MOO for Mat's pledge class. Despite his demeaner, David knew when to be serious and was an excellent teacher of all things Phi Tau. Because of this, Mat and David became great friends and David has been a real "buddy" that Mat can count on for anything. This lead to an unforgettable trip to Colorado for spring break one year where David, Joe, and Mat braved the elements in a hot tub and David disappeared for an hour, only to somehow find his way back in a city he had never been to. David has a big personality and an even bigger heart, both of which are clear from the time you meet him. He has a laugh that you will definitely be able to hear from the other side of the room, but it is absolutely infectious so good luck not laughing when David is around.