Brian graduated in 1994 from Connellsville Area High School where he served as a member of the starting lineup for the high school wrestling team. Brian began securing his place at the state level as early as the Junior Olympics—his focus and commitment both on and off the mat led to his success in a highly competitive sport. His personal drive and dedication to the sport reflected in each accomplishment and each title he obtained throughout his athletic career. The love of the sport was written on Brian's heart, and as a result, he made wrestling his life's work through coaching and mentoring young wrestlers in our area. At One Shot Wrestling Club, Brian focused on the whole athlete by building a skillset, developing character, establishing respect for the sport, and encouraging disciplined behaviors in each and every young athlete he coached.
Of Brian's many attributes, his humor and spirit are, by far, the most outstanding. His infectious smile, and booming laugh charmed everyone around him, and justly reflected his love of life and people. As an only child, Brian's friendships mirrored that of a brotherhood. Joking around, making memories, enjoying the outdoors, connecting with others, and thoroughly appreciating the simple things in life are among the wide array of elements that define Brian.
However, Brian's most important work was done within the walls of his own home. Brian was a devoted husband and father who always put his family at the forefront. Ten years after high school graduation, in 2004, Brian married his junior high sweetheart, Kristin Frey Martin. Together they built a life within their hometown community—raising one son (Tighe Brian, age 11), and deepening the establishment of their roots. Brian's core values were reflected in the way he cherished and invested in his family. As a father, Brian led by example—modeling strength, perseverance, humility, commitment, and, most importantly, love. As a husband, Brian was a pillar of stability, and there is no more inspiring role model than a man who is grounded in integrity. Each of the aforementioned attributes, possessed by Brian, are what ultimately led to the creation and establishment of the Brian K. Martin Foundation.
The Brian K. Martin Foundation is a 501(c)(3) foundation that has been created in love. Love of a man. Love of a sport. Love of education. Love of the children. Brian left his mark in this world, and through the work of this foundation we will continue to honor him, and show our gratitude to each and every one of you by giving back to the children.
The three greatest influences in any child's life are parents, peers, and teachers/coaches/mentors. Through the further development of this foundation we will continuously offer support and assistance to the influential individuals who, like Brian, leave their mark on our greatest resource—the children.
The Brian K. Martin Foundation believes athletes should be as competitive inside the classroom as they are outside the classroom. The commitment and discipline required by young athletes to be viable in their sport while maintaining an academic standard of achievement should be recognized and rewarded. This scholarship, presented in Brian’s honor, will be awarded to an athlete(s) who displays integrity and devotion both academically and athletically.
Success is no accident—prepare yourself.
