Coach Tom Martin Named Finalist for PCA National Coach of the Year
Tom Martin, the revered coach of the Walter Johnson High School cross country and track teams, has been named a Top 10 finalist for the Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) National Coach of the Year award. Martin’s selection came after being named one of the top 30 coaches from nearly 200 nominees across the nation.
With 28 years of coaching experience, Martin takes pride in the lasting bonds he's built with his athletes and the positive culture he fosters within his teams.
“My favorite part of coaching is helping kids make the connection between hard work and reaching goals,” Martin said. “When they realize that their effort leads to results, it's a powerful moment for them, and it’s a lesson that can be applied in every aspect of life.”
His coaching philosophy centers on fun and building a strong sense of connection within the team. He emphasizes setting personal goals over a sole focus on winning. “I don’t talk about winning,” he explained. “It’s up to them. If they come to me and say, ‘We think we can win the states,’ I’ll help them get there. But the decision to win has to come from them.”
Under his leadership, Martin’s teams have won more than 17 state championships in the last two decades. But for Martin, the true success stories come from the enduring relationships he's built with his athletes. Many of them continue to stay in touch years after graduation. “The other day, I got a call from a former athlete who is now a captain in the Army. He was about to leave the Army and wanted to talk to me about his next steps. It’s those kinds of moments that remind me of why I do this,” Martin said.
Ashley Corby, a former student-athlete and current assistant coach, highlighted Martin’s unique approach. “The real secret to Coach Martin’s success isn’t just about the training plans. It’s about ensuring that the kids are having fun and learning how to care about something,” Corby said. “When the kids care about what they’re doing, that’s when you see the positive results.”
Kelyn Soong, another former student turned assistant coach, added, “Although I didn’t compete at a high level, being part of the team and watching Coach Martin work made me realize how much I love being a part of a supportive team environment. He brings out the best in everyone.”
Larry A. Hurd Jr., an athletic specialist at Walter Johnson, praised Martin’s ability to build relationships with his athletes. “Coach Martin is a master of relationship building. His success on and off the track is a testament to the strong bonds he has built with his athletes and the community. It’s been an honor working with Coach Martin, and he is truly deserving of this award. He is simply the best of the best!”
Martin’s nomination was fueled by those impacted by his mentorship. Multiple letters of recommendation were submitted, including from former student-athletes, such as retired U.S. Army Capt. Florent Groberg, a 2015 Medal of Honor recipient. Groberg, who received the nation’s highest military honor for heroic actions in Afghanistan, has long credited Martin as an influential figure in his life and invited him to his Medal of Honor ceremony. Capt. Groberg’s testimony speaks to the far-reaching impact of Martin’s coaching.
As a top 10 finalist, Martin received $500 along with recognition on the Positive Coaching Alliance’s website. While he did not claim the top honor, his recognition as a finalist highlights his dedication and the profound impact he has had on his athletes and community.
Martin humbly credited his assistant coaches, Corby and Soong, for nominating him without his knowledge. “They took the time to gather letters and testimonials from former athletes and parents, and that was incredibly humbling for me,” he said.
- Letter of Recommendation from Current Athlete Elizabeth
- Letter of Recommendation from Current Athlete Josh
- Letter of Recommendation from Flo Groberg