Heidelberg University Athletics

The game of football, and Heidelberg University, played key roles in developing Shaun Martin into the father, husband and friend that he is today.

His path to finding the Heidelberg gridiron began growing up on the east side of Columbus and attending Independence High School before garnering a scholarship from Central State University. Martin played football for one season at Central State before taking a year off in which his daughter, DeShauna, was born. Martin quickly realized that there was more to his life then just working in a factory and found a spot on the football team at the Berg under the guidance of Dick West.

While at Heidelberg, Martin played offensive tackle and was a three-year letter winner. He was tabbed a preseason All-American in 1990 and 1991 which led to a spot on the Ohio Athletic Conference Second Team in 1990 and he concluded his playing career with a nod on the all-conference first team. In 1991, Martin became the fifth player in the history of the program to earn the OAC's Mike Gregory Award, which honors the top offensive lineman and offensive back. Added to his top OAC accolade in 1991 was an Honorable Mention All-American nod by Don Hansen's National Football Gazette.

During his time on the line, Martin helped lead the way to a 14-15-1 overall record and a 12-15-1 mark against league foes. He also cleared the way for fellow All-American Jason Brown's single game tying rushing touchdown mark, as well as a team record 413 single game rushing yards in 1991. Also in his final campaign the Berg ranked in the top three in the OAC in total offense and rushing yards per game.

Following his playing days, Martin has served as a high coach football coach with the Columbus City Schools, as well as with the Eastland Vikings little league team. He was a correctional officer for 10 years and served as a case manager for the Juvenile Criminal Justice department at the YMCA.

A native of Columbus, Ohio, Martin built strength off the support of Heidelberg to overcome the death of his parents during his first two years. The support he received during a tough time in his life gave him the courage to challenge himself to stay in school and eventually graduate in 1992.

Martin is a husband to Jamie and is a proud father to two daughters, DeShauna (20) and Paris (two months), as well as two sons, Tre (12) and Perry (5). He also has two stepsons, Brandon and Marquise.

(This profile was published in the Hall of Fame Banquet program. Mr. Martin passed away on Feb. 3, 2022.)