[gotcha2]

Coach Johnny Martin takes Senior Night as an opportunity to honor and "roast" his players. But last night the tables were turned on him. After introducing the 5 Senior players and making everyone in the gym laugh with humorous stories about each one - it was his turn. Senior Josh Martin stepped to the microphone and did his own version of Coach Martin on Senior Night. Coach Martin was then presented with a large painting of himself along with scenes from past games/players. Just as he thought it was ending former announcer James SLone stepped in and began reading a long list of names. Present for last nights game/ceremony were players from 1981 thru present. The look on Coach Martin's face was one of amazement. You could see the respect each of these players have for their coach and former coach as each one shook his hand and took their place on the floor. With Runnin' Rebels lined up all the way around the gym-Jerica Blair stepped to the microphone and sang "My Old Kentucky Home". It seemed like each time Coach Martin began to relax there was yet another surprise. He was presented with a Lettermans Jacket last night featuring the Runnin' Rebel accomplishments with him as coach. Following the game last night he was also honored with a reception in the school's cafeteria where he entertained everyone with stories of his players.

Rumors have circulated about Coach Martin retiring soon. I for one hope he stays for a very long time. A group of young men sitting near me last night apparently feel the same way. I overheard them commenting on how much they like and respect Coach Martin. The turn out for last night is just more proof of how people feel about Coach Martin.

Congratulations Coach Martin and Good Luck!!

[eaglehoops]

Very classy move for a very classy coach! Johnny Martin has been and always will be a great coach who will get the most our of his players. No matter what he decides to do at the end of the season it has been a pleasure watching him roam the sidelines all these years.

[clipperw]

Those were some very nice gestures done by the players, past and present. Sounds like he may very well be going into his final postseason. If he does in fact retire at seasons end, whoever takes over will have a tough act to follow.

[THUNDERCHILD]

Sounds great.

[-STAT-]

I was in attendance for all of this, and it was really a site to see, I enjoyed every minute of it. I have become alot closer with Coach Martin this year and although I dont play basketball for him, I feel like I am apart of the team, he is an inspiration to many, including myself and I will never forget Johnny Martin!

[Blue-N-Gold]

WOW..sounds like a great night of basketball memories and tradition. Congrats Coach Martin and Good Luck to the Seniors!!

[jammin' jamey]

It was an awesome tribute for Coach Martin and an emotional night for all Rebel alumni in attendance. Hopefully this year's squad was able to take into account what it must mean to play for the Rebels after seeing players from the past come back to honor their former coach. Hopefully it leads to some newfound pride for today's players and maybe just enough magic to lead AC back to the top.

[All_Sport#1]

that was very nice what the boys arranged for him, for his players to come and the letterman jacket, and the colauge picture, it was very sweet, and I loved the jokes he told about the boys. lol

[rallo316]

coach martin great man great coach i wish him all the best.

[BeaverCreek Connection]

I would have loved to been there.

[Wyatt Earp]

Johnny Martin is my friend.