Matt Thornton had a successful college football career at Georgia Southern University from 1992 thru 1995 and then went onto a professional playing career with the Jacksonville Tom Cats Arena Football team. He is also unique in the fact that he had some Rugby experience during his college playing days and was a member of the Jacksonville Axemen in 2007 before suffering what was considered a career ending injury. Matt also has one appearance for the USA National Team (Tomahawks) in 2000.

He returns to the Axemen in "unbelievable" condition according to Axemen coach Spinner Howland. His fitness and size combined with the speed his devastating hitting power is going to give the Axemen another weapon in offense and defense. Matt joins Akarika Dawn on the list of players who have had high level football experience and when added to Apple and Taco Pope, the American Football influence on the Axemen is starting to take root.

In addition to owning and operating Meridian Fitness Personal Training in Jacksonville, Matt has also had a stint in an MMA Fighting group.