Erick Martinez Joins Men's Tennis Program As Assistant Coach
7/26/2007 12:00:00 AM | Men's Tennis
July 26, 2007
Milwaukee - Erick Martinez has joined the Marquette University Athletic Department as an assistant coach with the men's tennis program, head coach Steve Rodecap announced Thursday morning.
"I am very excited to have attracted someone of Erick's character and experience as my assistant," Rodecap said. "He has competed at a very high level and understands how hard these athletes must work to be successful both on the court and in the classroom."
The Armargura, Mexico, native brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to the Golden Eagles. A former champion of the ITA Midwest Regional and nationally ranked performer, Martinez has already played a key role in a successful collegiate program.
Martinez arrives in Milwaukee after serving as the head professional and director of junior development at Topspin Racquet and Swim Club in Lexington, S.C. Prior to his stay at Topspin, he worked as an assistant professional at Thornblade Club in Greer, S.C., after a brief stint at Club Irlandes de Raqueta in Mexico City, Mexico.
His responsibilities at Marquette will involve all aspects of the program, including recruiting, on-court instruction and supervising the day-to-day operation of the office. Rodecap coached Martinez for two seasons at Northern Illinois University, where he was named to the All-Mid-American Conference team on three occasions. He was the MAC Freshman of the Year in 2001-02 and concluded his career ranked among the school's top 10 in doubles victories.
"His passion and dedication made him excel as a student-athlete and he will bring those same attributes as a coach," Rodecap said. "I knew very early in the process that he would be a great fit for our program and our entire University."
Martinez qualified for the NCAA Indoor Championships in 2004 and was ranked among the nation's top 20 doubles players in 2003. He continued his playing career following graduation, competing in several professional tournaments across the country.
He earned his bachelor's degree in business administration from NIU in 2005 and graduated with a grade-point-average of 3.63.