Matt Andres has made a career out of making his presence felt on the wrestling mat.

The Marist senior’s capacity for self-motivation and a healthy work ethic have helped catapult Andres to all-time status in the War Eagles varsity program.

“Matthew is a great wrestler; he’s a great kid … and very much a leader, a quiet leader,” said Marist coach Riddick Beebe.

A two-time captain, Andres has logged a career record of 107-41 with 56 pins — good for fifth and sixth, respectively, all-time in school history. He has proven his worth at both the 145- and 152-pound weight classes this season.

War Eagles coaches traced the origins of his transition from a .500 wrestler to full-fledged standout back to his sophomore year.

“[Andres] asked, ‘What do I need to do to get better?,’ recalled Beebe. “Then he followed through with almost every single thing we asked him to do … his dramatic turnaround is a credit to his work ethic, fortitude to follow up and being very disciplined in his own training.”

Marist insiders expect the well-versed grappler to compete in a state final this season.

“He’s just a brawler … who’s technically excellent,” said Beebe. “He stays in [an opponent’s] face, is very good on his feet and puts together three or four set-ups for each shot.”

“No one can hold him down,” the coach added. “He gets a lot of pins … doesn’t win a lot of matches by decision.”