It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Victor Martinez. Back in March, Victor was diagnosed with cancer and we learned that he passed away on Friday of last week.
Victor was a high school superstar on the soccer field for Phoenix and had transferred that skill to Rogue for the Ospreys — a charismatic, charming and hard-working man who had developed an incredible skill for the sport of soccer. He had a passion for music and faith, two things that helped define his life outside of his sport and give it even greater meaning.
In the classroom, Victor struggled initially before making the second-greatest academic turnaround in our program’s history, setting himself up for a return as a sophomore to build upon his All-Star freshman year, a season that will sadly never be played.
In our world, athletes come and they go. If we are lucky, we get to spend two years with them. Helping them while they help us. Our time with Victor was cut short, a young life full of potential that was taken too soon. And yet the distinct and meaningful impact that Victor had on us will last our lifetimes. A memory of what was, and what could have been.
The great Stuart Scott said it best during his battle against cancer, “When you die, that does not mean you lose to cancer. You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and in the manner in which you live. So live.” Thanks for sharing a part of your life with us, Victor. You will be missed and remembered.
Love and sympathy go out to all the Martinez family and anyone who was fortunate enough to meet and know Victor. May the fond memories comfort a grieving heart.
Take care of each other Ospreys.
Darren Van Lehn
Athletic Director