In the world of athletics, the impact of a devoted coach can be as profound as that of a loving father. Someone who exemplifies this is Coach Damon Martin of Adams State University. With an impressive collection of 38 National Coach of the Year awards and 41 National titles under his belt, his legacy extends far beyond statistics. He not only nurtures talent but also inspires confidence and dreams in countless athletes. His commitment to developing hard-working, talented runners mirrors the relentless dedication of parents who make sacrifices for their children’s success, proving that the bonds within sports can be deeply personal as those in a family.
The running program at Adams State embodies a strong sense of family, a sentiment that Coach Damon Martin emphasizes in his quest for new talent. He often highlights the “family type atmosphere” that the school nurtures, creating an environment where athletes feel connected and supported. Under Coach Martin’s leadership, this philosophy became a driving force for the team. “One of the things about being a family is that you do things for family that you just won’t do for other people,” Martin said, underscoring the unique bond that sets Adams State apart in its approach to running.
He has helped me develop not only as an athlete but also as a more disciplined, mentally resilient, and focused individual.
Awet Beraki
Student-athletes joining Adams State, often 17 or 18 years old, are eager to contribute to this legacy. However, they can sometimes become overly focused on personal success and may lose their way. As Damon wisely notes, “Even though they’re 18 or they’re considered adults, they’re not fully prepared for an environment where they’re unchecked or lack guidance.” To address this, he aims to provide a strong, supportive presence by being a role model who not only articulates the right values but also lives by them consistently. His goal is to instill a positive influence in their lives. In this nurturing environment, he also seeks to strike a balance between his responsibilities as a coach and his commitment to his own family.
“Damon’s role as a father has softened his coaching approach and made him more empathetic toward his athletes. Coaching can be an incredibly demanding profession, taking a toll on the family’s time and energy, but he has found ways to make it work” said Konnie Martin, Damon Martin’s wife.
Damon Martin has been the head coach of the track and cross-country programs at Adams State University for several decades, during which time his family has been deeply involved in the program.
“When Damon became a dad himself, he saw children in a different way. And so I think it certainly softened him a little bit and he certainly felt a different kind of warmth to kids,” said Konnie Martin.
Damon Martin is driven by a desire to help his athletes achieve their full potential, even if it means sacrificing his personal time and energy. His commitment often extends beyond the track. Most family holidays, like Thanksgiving and Christmas, are open for celebration with his athletes. He has welcomed them into his home, making them feel as if it were their own.
Lauren Masterson had the experience of being the daughter of Damon Martin and witnessing him coach athletes to believe in themselves beyond their current circumstances. She said, “I always knew I wanted to be part of that and be coached by him one day. When that moment finally arrived, it was both challenging and incredibly special. He pushed me harder than anyone else, but always with the quiet belief I had seen him extend to others. Running for him meant more than just competition; it was about growth, learning to lead, and showing up fully every day.”
Masterson’s experiences reveal the profound impact her father Damon had on her journey, not only as a coach but as a guiding force in her life. “Under his guidance, we achieved dreams I had since childhood – national titles and All-American honors – but the true victory was accomplishing it together. Looking back, those years weren’t just about the sport; they were about becoming who I was meant to be, with my dad by my side – not just as a coach, but as someone who shaped my path in every way,” said Masterson.
Family has been deeply intertwined with Martin’s coaching career, with his own children growing up alongside the athletes he has coached, with many former athletes staying in touch and continuing to be involved in the program.
Awet Beraki, who recently completed his collegiate career under the guidance of Coach Damon, reflected on the profound influence his coach had on his life beyond the realm of running. He said, “Coach Martin’s philosophy has instilled in me a sense of resilience that goes well beyond athletics. His focus on maintaining a positive mindset amidst challenges, whether in training or in life, has significantly shaped my approach to adversity. By emphasizing the importance of showing up with the right attitude, no matter the situation, he has helped me develop not only as an athlete but also as a more disciplined, mentally resilient, and focused individual.”
As Beraki navigates his post-collegiate journey, the role of Coach Damon takes on an even deeper significance, emerging as a vital father figure and role model in his life. Many athletes find themselves not only shaped by their coaches’ guidance on the field but also by the values and life lessons imparted off the field.
Martin exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, teaching not just the mechanics of running but also the importance of character, responsibility, and support. His unwavering belief in his athletes’ potential has provided a foundation of encouragement and support, reflecting the qualities of a caring father.
Running for him meant more than just competition; it was about growth, learning to lead, and showing up fully every day.
Lauren Masterson
Damon Martin stands with Kidus Begashaw and Ava O’Connor at the XC Nationals, 2024, captured by Josh Kutcher.
One of Coach Martin’s current athletes, Katie Hughes, who was part of the 2024 national championship-winning cross country team, expressed her gratitude for him as a positive role model in her life. She shared how he helped her through a difficult period. “I was having a rough time with a breakup, and I spoke to my coach about it. He reminded me why I was here, what my goals were, and encouraged me not to let that personal issue affect my performance. I had support from friends, but this is what I needed to hear.”
Coach Martin consistently demonstrates his dedication to his athletes by not only providing expert training but also offering invaluable support during their personal challenges, which helps them thrive both on and off the field.
“Damon, he has really dedicated his life and his career to making a difference. And that difference is represented through winning. But winning hasn’t been the end game. It’s been making a difference,” said Konnie Martin.
Running is an intense, challenging, yet rewarding sport where relationships are built through the physical and mental obstacles that athletes face. They don’t just wake up in the morning, lace up their shoes, and go set a world record. There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes and moments that often go unnoticed, much like the impact that Coach Damon Martin has had on these athletes. His influence extends beyond the track, making a difference that transcends any finish line.
