Jeremy Martin doesn’t want a repeat of last fall when the Hopedale High boys soccer team missed qualifying for tourney play by a game, losing its last regular season contest to Milford.
The 5-foot-7, 115-pound junior, who scored 12 goals and assisted on 10 others as a sophomore, is in his fifth varsity season as the Blue Raiders’ central midfielder, and the two-time Dual Valley Conference all-star not only will be striving to help Hopedale return to the playoffs, but also to win the DVC championship.
“My goal this season is to qualify for the tourney and advance as far as possible,’’ said Martin, who was born in Nice, France, but has lived in Hopedale since he was four. “The playoffs are realistic because we’ve got some key starters back. We were in the tourney two years ago when I was a freshman and the atmosphere was electric. I enjoyed the excitement and liked competing for our school. If we keep improving, we can contend for the league championship.’’
Martin did everything in his power last year to elevate Hopedale into post-season play. The Blue Raiders had to win their last two games, starting with defending-champ Sutton. “That was a do-or-die situation,’’ Martin recalled. “The game was scoreless but I shot from about 40 yards out and scored. Their goalie seemed to have trouble with the sun. We won, 1-0, but lost our final game of the season to Milford by a goal (1-0).’’
Martin’s team objectives are admirable and so, too, are his individual goals. He’d like to improve his statistics and also be chosen to the DVC all-star team again. Two other aspects he’s eager to improve on reveal how much he cares about his team’s welfare.
“I want to be more consistent by limiting my mistakes and I want to make an impact early in our matches,’’ he said. “If I scored only five goals this year and we qualified for the playoffs, that would suit me fine.’’
Martin’s coach, Greg LaBossiere, is quick to laud Martin’s ability and his passion for soccer. “Jeremy is a skilled player who is solid in transition, has great field vision, good touch on the ball, and excellent endurance,’’ LaBossiere said. “He’s been on the varsity since Grade 7 and he’s a player who make everyone around him better.’’
Martin spent time in August competing in a national tourney in Colorado. He played well for his club team (N.E. Football Club of Holliston), helping it advance to the semifinal round. He’s played club soccer for 10 years.
Relying on a style that combines being patient and aggressive enables Martin to be a free-lance midfielder. He’s instinctive in many facets of the game.
“My strengths are field awareness, passing, endurance and my decision-making in transition,’’ Martin said. “Knowing when to pass or attack on offense and when to switch to defense are keys in the midfield. Because I’m small, I’ve tried to improve in all aspects by running a lot and lifting weights.’’
Martin, who’s been playing soccer since age four, is quick to credit his coach and some talented teammates who should be major assets this season. “Austin Firth is a strong scorer and passer at striker,’’ Martin noted. “Ben Tamoush is a midfielder who’s strong on offense and defense and Matt Luchini has excellent instincts and makes big saves in goal. Our coach is another plus. He’s easy to approach, knows the game and is a good motivator.’’
A hard-working student, Martin plans on attending college and continuing his soccer career at the intercollegiate level. “Jeremy definitely has the talent and ability to play in college,’’ LaBossiere said.
Martin’s love for soccer shines brightly when he defines his competitive philosophy. “I want to win,’’ he said emphatically. “I also want to reach my potential and have fun. Winning equals fun.’’
Opening day turned out to be fun and enjoyable as Hopedale blanked Millis, 4-0, with Martin scoring a goal.
Learning life lessons is another plus Martin has derived from soccer. He values setting goals and working with teammates. “Sports help me to handle new situations,’’ he emphasized. “If I have a bad day, I try to bounce back, knowing there’s a better day ahead. Also, soccer has helped me build new friendships. It provides a sense of family.’’
Martin is a few days away from turning 17. He’s been playing soccer for 13 years and he’s gained lots of confidence in his role as a central midfielder. LaBossiere says that Martin makes other players better, a comment that humbles the all-star.
“If I can take charge in my role by making good decisions, like passing well and being strong in transition, then that helps others become confident, not only with my game but their own ability,’’ Martin said. “Soccer is a team game and it presents a lot of challenges.’’
Jeremy Martin’s outlook is refreshing and should be a prime factor as Hopedale’s boys soccer team sets its sights on a tournament berth.
Issue Date:
October, 2016
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