ALBANY, GA- A glove, a dream, a passion—these elements have combined to forge a powerful journey. Luis Martinez's path to becoming the Golden Rams' assistant coach is a testament to resilience. Despite facing every challenge life threw his way, he remained focused, demonstrating that perseverance and passion can transform dreams into reality.

Coach Martinez's journey started in South America and transitioned to the United States in 2015. His collegiate career began at ASA College-Miami, and he became an all-star in the ballpark. To this day, he holds the record for most career hits (85) and walks (70). Martinez finished his collegiate career at Thomas University, where he was named an all-conference athlete and Male Breakthrough Athlete of the Year in 2019. He earned a bachelor's degree in business administration and later a master's degree in business administration. Before joining the Golden Rams in the fall of 2022, he received his first coaching at Thomas University, where he oversaw the development of position players.  

We got a chance to catch up with Coach Martinez:
 
Q: How have your family values influenced your approach to coaching?
A: My family values have significantly shaped my approach to coaching in several ways. Firstly, my family household's emphasis on integrity and respect has taught me the importance of building a positive and respectful environment for my athletes. I believe that every individual deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, which promotes trust and open communication in the coaching relationship. Additionally, my family's strong work ethic has taught me the value of perseverance and dedication. I encourage my athletes to set high standards for themselves and to work diligently towards their goals, understanding that success often comes from sustained effort and resilience. 
 
Q: What motivated you to become a coach?
A: My love for the game is what primarily motivated me to become a coach. I find it incredibly rewarding to develop players' skills and help them reach their full potential. As a coach, I have the opportunity to make a positive impact on players' lives both on and off the field. Ultimately, being a leader, teacher, and role model within the baseball community inspires me to take on the role of a baseball coach.
 
Q: How important is the chemistry between the head coach and assistant coaches?
A: Having a strong connection with your coaching staff is crucial for a team's success. Good chemistry fosters energy, effort, creativity, respect, communication, and strong relationships, all of which are essential for an effective coaching staff. When the head coach and assistant coaches work well together, we can collaboratively develop strategies, make informed decisions, and offer guidance to the players.
 
Q: How do you see yourself as a role model, and what impact do you want to make on the next generation?
A: As a role model, I strive to be respectful, intelligent, strong, patient, honest, and passionate while maintaining a growth mindset. I aim to inspire others by leading by example and demonstrating the importance of kindness, respect, and hard work.
 
I want to positively impact the next generation by encouraging them to pursue their passions and view failure as a chance for growth. By sharing my experiences, I hope to empower them to believe in their ability to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.
 
Q: How do you handle adversities or coaching challenges?
A: Handling adversities or coaching challenges relies on mindset. I believe that "there is always a way; you just have to find it." Approaching tough situations positively increases my chances of success. To navigate these challenges, I stay calm, remain positive, trust the process, listen actively, help others, and communicate effectively.
 
Fun Facts:
Favorite Hobbies: Pickle ball, reading books 
Three athletes you believe are the Greatest of All Time: Michael Jordan, Barry Bonds, Tiger Woods 
If you weren't coaching, what other career would you pursue?: Sales/Marketing 
Favorite vacation destination: Margarita Island, Venezuela. 
Favorite time of the year: Spring
 
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ABOUT ALBANY STATE ATHLETICS
Albany State University is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II-level intercollegiate athletic program. The university currently field teams in 11 sports: women's volleyball, women's tennis, women's cross country, men's and women's basketball, softball, men's and women's track and field, women's soccer, baseball, and football. All teams compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), except women's soccer, which participates in the Peach Belt Conference.