Interview: 2018 California DE Justin Martz Wreaking Havoc in Opposing Backfields
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Class of 2018 defensive end Justin Martz may be a great guy off the field, but on it, he is a nightmare for opposing offenses to deal with play after play. Be it against the run or on passing downs, somehow and someway, Martz is influencing what happens once the ball is snapped helping lead his team to a potential playoff berth.
Regardless of the sport, all high school athletes want to peak during their senior season – cue Martz from stage right. The buildup to a dominating 2017 campaign took off during his junior season racking up 58 tackles, 31 solo, 10 tackles for a loss, three sacks, five quarterback hurries, and one fumble recovery for Palos Verdes High School. The 6-2, 235 pound, defender has pushed his game forward posting a stat line of 62 tackles, 20 tackles for a loss, two sacks, and a fumble recovery through eight games played. To show off his athleticism, he is taking extra snaps on the offensive side of the ball playing tight end. Primarily used as a glorified extra tackle, he does have one reception for eight yards.
Martz’s stats are all good and well, but deserve a little context. The Sea Kings, a California Division-III squad, have not played creampuff teams this season helping the guys pad numbers. The guys went up levels to face two defending champs in Narbonne and San Clemente, both on pace to defend their titles in the playoffs, and Newbury Park, a team with Division-I athletes. The tough games against bigger teams is sure to pay dividends in the playoffs going against top line competition week after week, and help mold the narrative for the Sea Kings on the field abilities.
Offers and recruiting interest is coming in for Martz. Pungent Sound, Avila, New Mexico Highlands, Catholic University have already offered with teams like Montana, Montana State, Dixie State, Northern Arizona, University of San Diego, and Azusa Pacific showing interest. A special moment for Martz is coming up, his first official visit.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with one of the overlooked Class of 2018 California talents tucked away in Bay League getting a rundown on the season to date.
Interview
Justin, the Sea Kings have played some tough teams this year like Narbonne, San Clemente, and Newbury Park and played well against each squad. What is your team doing well on both sides of the ball this season?
“Our team has become more of a brotherhood not individuals working by ourselves. We’re playing as a team.”
How have those tough games made you guys better going through league play with an eye on the playoffs?
“The tough teams have definitely pushed us to become better as a team. We are working harder in the film room, weight room, and in general. Playing the bigger schools helps us get that look into the playoffs. Come playoff time, we will face good teams. We have to work our butts off to do as well as we can.”
You’ve had a standout season on defense, especially creating chaos in the opposition’s backfield. What are the strengths of your game from the defensive end position?
“I feel like my strengths are my speed, I believe I am one of the faster defensive ends in the area. I’m strong in the weight room and I have a great eye for the ball. I am able to read when the quarterback is pulling it or giving it.”
You mentioned speed and strength, what is the best 40-yard dash time you posted in the offseason?
“4.85.”
What were you max numbers in the weight room?
“My squat was 475, my bench was 305, and my power clean was 255.”
Putting all of that together, which areas of your game have improved the most this season?
“Rushing the quarterback, pressuring the quarterback, and my lateral speed.”
You’re getting some time in on offense as well this season. How are the coaches utilizing your athleticism on offense?
“They are using me in the run game, I love down blocking on kids. I’d love to do more in the passing game, I think everyone always wants to do more. I know the coaches are using me as best as they can.”
How is the defense playing overall with two games left in the season?
“Our defense has been doing well. We have to fix some little mistakes here and there but we are solid in all positions.”
What is the team’s mindset in practice each week?
“Go kick the hell out of whoever lines up in front of us.”
Do you guys have a pre-game ritual to get hyped before taking the field?
“We usually do a prayer before we take the field. We listen to music and jam out in the locker room. I do my air guitar to get myself hyped.”
The team is on a roll with a three-game winning streak, what do the Sea Kings need to do to pick up a fourth consecutive win against Mira Costa (4-4) on Friday?
“If we want the fourth consecutive win, we have to shut them down. We have to play as a team per usual.”
What challenges are you guys expecting from the Mustangs offense?
“Their offense is well balanced, we have to shut both sides down.”
You have a lot of interest and offers, have you taken any visits this fall?
“I went on Junior Day visits to Montana, Montana State, and Northern Arizona.”
Do you have any planned visits for this fall?
“After our rivalry week next week, I’m going to Montana State on my first official visit.”
That’s fantastic. What has you excited about visit?
“Montana State has a beautiful campus. Hopefully, I can play football there next year. I’m excited to learn some life experiences while I’m there. I want to see the whole atmosphere of the program and school. It is my understanding, the players there are treated like a pro player. The program there is awesome, the coaches are Class A people, and the players are guys I would love to hang around. I can’t wait.”
How is everything going in the classroom?
“I have a 3.3 GPA.”
Have you taken the ACT or SAT yet?
“I scored a 21 on the ACT. I’m retaking it soon.”
Is there a degree you may pursue once in college?
“I’m not sure yet. Possibly kinesiology.”
Is there a motto, quote, or words of wisdom that shapes your daily life on or off the field?
“Take one play, one rep at a time every time.”
Justin, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your season.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: Sea King football; No. 10 Justin Martz