UNC’s Joe Martin named Skidmore men’s lacrosse coach
Skidmore College has appointed Joe Martin head men’s lacrosse coach. Martin has been at the University of North Carolina since 2013.
“Joe Martin will be a terrific addition to our department as he leads the men’s lacrosse program with a high degree of passion, knowledge of the game, and commitment to developing the whole student,” said Gail CummingsDanson, Skidmore athletics director. “Some of his core values for the program center around having courage, discipline and selflessness and with that, a dedication to a culture for the program that prioritizes family, academics and lacrosse.”
Martin was the Director of Lacrosse Operations at UNC from November 2013 to August 2016 when he was promoted to assistant head coach. He worked primarily with the defensive unit as well as UNC’s face-off men and wing play.
In Martin’s first season as a member of the coaching staff, the Tar Heels won the ACC Tournament championship while earning their ninth successive NCAA tournament bid.
In his role as operations director, Martin oversaw all game and practice film responsibilities, supervised the team managers, oversaw equipment ordering and distribution, arranged team travel and meals and helped operate youth and high school clinics. During his tenure, Carolina won the NCAA championship in 2016 while also earning bids to the tournament in the previous two seasons. The 2016 team also won the ACC regular-season championship. Carolina’s record over his three seasons as operations director was 35-15.
“I could not be more excited for Joe Martin as he starts his new journey in Saratoga Springs,” UNC head coach Joe Breschi said. “Skidmore College is getting a great family in Joe and Cathy Martin.
“Joe’s relentless work ethic, passion for the game and energy to succeed is unparalleled. In five seasons at Carolina he gave us everything he had and helped the Tar Heels win ACC and national championships. Joe is ready to be a head coach and lead his own program to great heights. I’m very happy and proud of Coach Martin and wish him tremendous success.”
Martin earned his Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from Western New England University in Springfield, Mass., in May 2012. He had a major in finance and a minor in economics.
After graduating, Martin stayed on at WNEU for a year as an assistant men’s lacrosse coach before moving to Chapel Hill in November 2013.
Martin played his college lacrosse at his alma mater from 2009-12. He was a first-team AllConference selection in 2011 and 2012. As a senior, he was named both ECAC All-New England and NEILA All-New England.
“I would like to thank Director of Athletics Gail CummingsDanson, Associate Athletic Director Megan Buchanan, and the entire search committee for giving me the opportunity to lead the Skidmore College men’s lacrosse program,” Martin said. “The support of my family, former coaches, colleagues and players has helped me achieve what has been a lifelong dream of being a head coach.
“Skidmore is a truly special place with a unique combination of academic excellence and athletic achievement, in an incredible setting. I cannot wait to get to know our outstanding studentathletes. Along with our assistant coaching staff, I look forward to providing our team with a memorable collegiate experience and fulfilling what I believe is an extremely bright future for Skidmore lacrosse.”