Playing center defense in soccer is one of the hardest roles in all of sports. The athleticism, speed, strength, and smarts involved makes it almost impossible to succeed, especially in high school sports, when players are managing school, jobs, homework, sports, and all other responsibilities. A prime example of a player that succeeds in all of these categories is Lady Bobcats senior defender Erin Martin.
It’s very rare to find a defender that almost never lets people dribble or run by them, but at South Windsor High School, the girls varsity soccer team was blessed with one. Erin Martin is a standout defender that can chase down any forward or any player on opposing teams. Her speed is unmatchable on the field and is an advantage for the Lady Bobcats because she can be trusted in the back, especially in one-on-one situations.
Sophomore defender Allison Marques joined the varsity team her freshman year and started as a center back with Martin. Marques told The Prowl “During games I never doubt her ability to always have my back no matter the situation.” Marques highlights her bond with Martin through the trust she has for her. Martin is known for helping her teammates out if one of them gets beat. She is always in the right spot at the right time to put a tackle in.
In almost every game, Martin runs back to tackle the ball in order to prevent goals from happening. When the ‘Cats played Rocky Hill early into their season, they were able to come out with a 2-1 win because of the rock solid defense.
Erin Martin was there to take the ball from nearly anyone at any moment. She plays her hardest every single minute of the game.
Martin plays a full 80 minutes in almost every game with no problem. Having stamina and speed is a very difficult thing to have, helping her be one of a kind. Marques also stated, “When I came onto the team I automatically saw Erin as a natural born leader. I saw she took on the responsibility to lead the back line.” Her communication skills out of the back are immaculate as she continues to lead the defense every game.
Although soccer is extremely competitive, Martin finds comfort by being around her friends and supporters. “I enjoy playing soccer because it is a very fun and competitive sport to play,” Martin told The Prowl
Before each game, she zones in by listening to music and thinking about game situations. Martin knows how to balance fun and seriousness in order to get positive results in games. On the way to Lewis Mills, Martin was laughing and having fun with her team, but as soon as warm ups started, she stayed focused and didn’t allow Lewis Mills forwards to get good shots on net, helping the ‘Cats pull off the upset victory.
Martin’s tackling technique is extremely difficult to match. She explained, “I wait for them to take a big touch or a mistake and then I jump in for the tackle to clear the ball.” It’s easier said than done, but Martin knows how to get the job done.
With the Lady Bobcats starting their run in the state tournament on Friday, October 31, at home against Brien McMahon, Martin will look to help guide the team to a deep playoff run and end her senior season with a bang.
