Vern Martin

Being a legacy is a double-edged sword, on one hand it can open doors, and on the other hand, it can place tremendous pressure on the individual.   This year’s Outstanding Coach, Vern Martin, certainly qualifies as a legacy following in the footsteps of his father, Kelly, 2010 ASLHOF inductees.  Kelly was one of the co-founders of Antioch Little League and his name is synonymous with youth sports in Antioch in the 50’s-80’s.

Vern was a chip off the old block and excelled in football and baseball and was a member of the 1970 Antioch High Baseball team that was inducted in the ASLHOF in 2009.  Vern benefited from amazing coaches as he grew up in Antioch having played for four coaching, Hall of Famers; Kelly Martin, Babe Atkinson, Bill Snelson and Marv Comstock.

Vern culminated his nearly 40 years of coaching by leading the Antioch High Baseball team from 2004-2006 compiling a record of 41-33 including two NCS playoff appearances.   Previously he led the lady Panther softball program for 7 years leading them to a BVAL championship in 1999 and four appearances in the NCS Playoffs including a spot in the 1999 NCS Championship game.

Vern started his coaching career in football coaching in the JFL in its last season and 8 years for the Antioch Youth Football team.   He coached the Junior Varsity at Antioch High for 12 years, including 7 seasons as head coach.  During the spring and summer he coached Little League baseball for 25 years, leading the Phillies for 22 years and many all-star teams.  Vern also coached Babe Ruth for 3 years.

Vern certainly catapulted all the great experience he learned from great coaches to pave his own legacy as 37 different athletes that he coached have been inducted into the Antioch Sports Legends Hall of Fame.