W. WATER POLO: QUESTIONS, COACHES, AND, COVID - COACH MARTINEZ

COACHES & COVID is a series of questions answered by the Fullerton College coaching staff, regarding the Hornet sports programs, and how they are coping during this pandemic. Last season, FC Head Coach Gabriel Martinez led his Hornets to their second state title, and he is currently working hard with his student-athletes to make another run at the championship this spring.

How are you keeping in touch with your student-athletes?

The team is having Zoom meetings four times a week for two hours each session. 

With COVID and no contact with your players, what are some of the training methods that you're doing to keep them sharp on the field?

The team is using Bridge Athletics three times a week for their dryland. I am also sending them four water workouts that they can do on their own time. 

Are there specific actions or protocol that you go through to keep everyone safe?

Because we are not meeting in person, I just remind them to follow the CDC protocols. Those are to maintain their personal space (at least 6 feet) if they cannot maintain their space, wear a face covering. 

After winning your second state title last fall, how much of that team will stay intact or did you have to reload with some new talent?

In the sport of water polo seven players play at a time (starters).  From those seven starters six of them were second year players and have moved on to four-year schools. We had a deep bench last year that received a lot of playing time and we are expecting a lot from them this year. We have many second-year players that are going to have a fantastic season.  

Any sophomore or freshmen players that you would like to highlight?

We have two returning players that were names on last year's all-conference team Kelly Doherty and Charley Jackson both are expected to have a great season. We added many incoming freshmen that we feel are going to make a huge impact this season. With our returning players and the incoming freshmen and if we can stay healthy, we are expecting great things. 

You are now the winningest coach since the program began in 1996 (297-96 overall), what have you learned since your first days at FC over 10 years ago?

At Fullerton College we have the best Physical Education department in California. Recruiting the correct athlete is important, and over the years we have had a lot a talent come through the program. I feel that I am very lucky to be coaching here. As always family and grades are more important than athletics. Always trying to help our community. 

If you could have a weekend pass from COVID what would you do? What do you miss the most from this isolation?

If I could have a pass for the weekend from COVID I would like to have a practice or play a tournament with my extended family (Fullerton College Water Polo team), and I would have a huge BBQ with my immediate and extended family. 

Any hobbies?

On my down time I like to run, play golf, and garden.  I do not have much time for that right now though. I hope soon I will be able to do those things once again.

What inspires you in life? What motivates you to motivate others?

I have two daughters, and I always try to be a good example to them (be a good person to everyone).Also, to take care of myself mentally, physically, and emotionally. 

We have a saying "Once a Hornet, Always a Hornet", what is it you love about Fullerton College?

The whole Physical Education department at Fullerton College is the best. Before I came to Fullerton College, I coached at Golden West College and Santa Ana College. The atmosphere and the support all the coaches give each other is incredible. David, Scott, Anita, and Michelle with their busy schedule they always have a welcoming smile and ask how they can help.