Matt Brown was born in Huntington Beach, California before moving to Niwot, Colorado. As a player, Brown was a key element to the Niwot High School three-time state champion team. Coach Brown began his college baseball career at Ft. Scott Community College playing for former major league All-Star Dave LaRoche. Brown pitched and played outfield for the Grey Hounds while earning his Associates degree in Science.

Brown then moved onto Pittsburg State University, where he filled many roles for Gorilla pitching staff.  He finished his playing career at the University of Bridgeport as a reliever for the Purple Knights where he was awarded NYCAC pitcher of the week.