Martin's Track Resignation Accepted by D-300 Board

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[ In the past half-century, Du Quoin High School's Boys Track and Field athletes have been guided by just three coaches-Galen Davis, Bob Karnes and Allen Martin.

After Martin's resignation was accepted by the Du Quoin Community Unit District #300 Board of Education Monday night, the search for a fourth coach to guide the tradition-rich program will begin.

Martin-already a Hall of Fame football coach at DHS-steps down following 15 successful springs as the "Hustling Indians" mentor.

"It's time for some fresh ideas and fresh energy," Martin said. "I've grown to love track and field and would like to remain involved as a volunteer assistant coach in some manner. I hope to be able to focus on improving as a teacher and football coach."

Just like football, Martin followed in the Hall-of-Fame footsteps of Bob Karnes to keep Du Quoin's teams among the region's and state elite in Class A-and now Class 2A-boys track.

There have been four individual state champions under Martin's watch, including two-time Pole Vault winner Cody Doerflein. Ridge Thompson and Zach Atkins also claimed titles.

With over two dozen medalists the past 15 years, the Indians also boast several state runner-up's in both individual and relay events.

Du Quoin was second in the Class A State team competition two years ago (2007) while also cracking the top ten two other times (2008 and 2006).

Along the way, the Tribe thinclads were champions of the River-to-River Conference times and never placed lower than third in the Mississippi Division standings.

Martin heaped praise and thanks to a group of longtime assistant coaches and volunteers who've helped keep Du Quoin's track program prosperous, despite the lack of adequate facilities and a steady enrollment decline.

"Roger Craft has been loyal and dedicated throughout the years and Bob Shaw continues to do a wonderful job with our weighlifting program. Kent Leek has developed numerous jumpers and runners over the years. Carry Bailey was coached by Kent. John Gross has coached our Pole Vaulters and Gene Rodley assisted with the Discus throwers. Carry was a great help for many years with our jumping kids."

Martin also thanked current volunteer assistants Derek Beard, Mike Riggio and Uriah Porter for outstanding work.

"We've had some great athletes," Martin said. "And they have been blessed to work with some great assistants and volunteer coaches. Our kids have worked hard in a tough sport. Track is a challenge. You are always looking for ways to motivate kids and for new ideas."

Trevor Hoffman medalled for the Indians this past spring in the 300 Meter Intermediate Hurdles.

In doing so, he became the ninth individual and/or relay team coached by Martin to establish current Du Quoin High School track and field records.