POLAND OH- Poland Seminary High School’s golf program is swinging into a new era under first-year head coach Chris Martin, whose leadership was highlighted during a recent appearance on the YSN Live podcast with DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig.
Taking the reins from longtime coaches, Martin brings not only a background in multiple sports but a refreshing honesty about his new role. “I’m calling myself the manager this year. I mean, this thing was already up and running,” Martin joked, crediting the program’s tradition of success and a strong booster club for his smooth transition. Last season, the Bulldogs placed eighth in the state and return nearly their entire lineup—a fact not lost on the new coach. “I got everybody back… At times, it’s a hard thing because we got a lot of kids that are hungry and eager to be a part of this journey.”
Martin brings a wealth of coaching experience from stints with Poland’s baseball and both boys and girls basketball teams, and credits mentors like Nick Blanch and Eric Fender for shaping his approach. He also stressed the importance of transparency with players and parents. “Sometimes it’s just easier to just get it out there. You’re not going to always make people happy, but at least they have time to receive it.” Martin recognizes the unique challenges of building excitement around high school golf, which doesn’t draw crowds like other sports. He’s actively promoting the team and area golf, sending match results to local media and leveraging community support: “You play well, people want to see it… I remember being in these kids’ positions; you want people to know if you shot well.”
As both a coach and educator, Martin values seeing his athletes succeed in the classroom as much as on the course. “I don’t know how people coach that aren’t a teacher. For me, being around the kids, seeing their actions in school and guiding them… that’s a big part of coaching.” With family support and Poland’s pride behind him, Martin is poised to keep the Bulldogs on track for another standout season. “At this point in my career, it’s not about me. It’s about the kids… and to see these parents support them, that’s what it’s all about in the high school atmosphere.”
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