10 Questions With...Robert Mathis

Three-time Pro Bowler Robert Mathis has won a Super Bowl with the Indianapolis Colts, but he’s just as super off the field. When Mathis isn’t working to better himself as an athlete, he’s working to better the lives of others. Every year, Mathis spreads joy throughout the community with his annual Indiana Wish Fund, an event where the Colts’ defensive end grants wishes to families and children in need. Recently, Mathis took some time out of his busy schedule to take on our questions. Keep reading to see what he had to say!

What time is your alarm set for?
In the off-season, it’s set for 9:30. In season, it’s set for 8:15 so I can make my meetings.

Chocolate, Vanilla, or Strawberry ice cream?
Hands down, chocolate.  I’m a chocolate freak. I go chocolate syrup on chocolate ice cream. Don’t let my nutritionist know. [Laughs]

What was your childhood nickname?
I had a lot of them. My family used to call me Ra-Rob. Egg Head was another one. I hated that one. My classmates used to call me that. It was because I had a big head. I was a little kid with a nice-sized dome on me. [Laughs]

If you weren’t an athlete, what would you want to do?
I’d be a teacher. That was Plan B. Health, P.E. or coaching.

Why do you wear the jersey number you do?
The Colts gave me an option of three numbers: 98, 97 and 91. I asked my mother to pick one and she said 98, so there you have it.

What is your favorite city to compete in?
Indianapolis. The fans get loud and they’re cheering your name and they’re clapping and they’re going crazy. I would expect any athlete thinks their home [stadium] is the best place to play.

What do you do on days off?
Just relax and try to get my body back because football is very taxing. So you just try to get in the cold tub or maybe get a massage so you can get your body back and do it again next Sunday.

Who is the greatest athlete of all-time?
I’m biased in football, I’d have to say Jerry Rice. He came from the same football conference I came from in college. Big up to the SWAC and Jerry Rice.

Who is your best friend in sports?
It would be a mix of [Colts teammates] Dwight Freeney, Reggie Wayne, Gary Brackett and Antoine Bethea.

What is the last item that you purchased?
I’m a gadget guy. It was a Brookstone foot massager. Gotta keep those bunions breathing [Laughs]. When my girl drags me to the mall, I just beeline it right to Brookstone and sit down.