Longwood University announced this week that David Martinez has been appointed as an assistant coach for the Lancers' men's soccer team, bringing a blend of professional playing experience and international perspective to the program.
A Transatlantic Playing Career
Martinez, a native of Yecla, Spain, enjoyed a collegiate career that spanned two continents. At Indiana Tech, he appeared in 22 matches, starting 19 of them, and posted a .738 save percentage while guiding the team to an NAIA national tournament appearance. His stint with Ottawa saw him record a .765 save percentage and a 1.04 goals‑against average, again contributing to a tournament berth.
Beyond raw statistics, Martinez's journey from Spain to the United States equipped him with a unique cultural lens. He earned a communications degree from Indiana Tech in 2025, a credential that complements his coaching philosophy and ability to connect with student‑athletes.
Focus on Goalkeeper Development
The Lancers' coaching staff highlighted Martinez's specific mandate to mentor the team's goalkeepers. Leveraging his own experience between the posts, he will work directly with the keepers to refine technique, decision‑making and mental resilience, aiming to elevate the defensive unit's consistency throughout the season.
Athletic Director Paul Gilbert praised the hire, noting that Martinez's high‑level playing background and proven ability to lead teams to national tournaments make him an invaluable addition. Gilbert emphasized that the new assistant coach will help the program maintain its competitive edge in the highly contested conference schedule.