Favorite Jay Martin Story
Vic Misiewicz '82
Atlanta, GA
In the late 1970's and early 1980's, Jay Martin was the young, energetic, new head soccer coach at Ohio Wesleyan University. Ohio Wesleyan, back in those times, was known to have a reputation for being a bit of a party school. The drinking age in Ohio was 18, and Jay's players were known to enjoy a refreshing adult beverage at times.
Jay, in his wise ways, elected to hold team meetings at his house, the night before soccer games. At these meetings, he talked game strategy while allowing his players a cold draft beer or two from his own personal kegerator, an action which would probably be frowned upon in today's world. Jay seemed to know, even at his relatively young age, that by giving his players a little freedom, he could create a culture of responsibility. He could bond with his team over a beer, and watch over his players while ensuring no one would behave badly the night before a game.
Smart coaching in my opinion.