Martin caps multi-sport Newport career, signs with Spokane Falls

NEWPORT – Newport’s Brad Martin III has spent the last four years doing just about everything for the Grizzlies.

Whether it was under the Friday night lights, on the basketball court, or on the baseball diamond, Martin became one of Newport’s most dependable athletes, and now, he’s taking that work ethic to the next level at Spokane Falls Community College.

“I’m proud to have played all three of these sports in high school,” Martin said. “I love all of them, and I think playing a wide variety of sports allowed me to become even more athletic and become a better player in general.”

Martin starred in football, basketball and baseball during his time at Newport High School, building a reputation as a competitor and leader across every season. He said some of his favorite memories came from winning rivalry games and sharing those moments with teammates and friends.

In football, he pointed to victories over Priest River on the Spartans’ homecoming and Freeman in a league championship-clinching game. In basketball, he remembers the chemistry and success of his freshman season. In baseball, one game stood above the rest.

“My favorite memory in baseball was this year when we beat Chewelah, 1-0, on their senior night,” Martin said.

Martin’s senior baseball season backed up the praise he earned from coaches and teammates. At the plate, the infielder/pitcher hit .430 with a .596 on-base percentage and a .600 slugging percentage. He totaled 19 hits, 11 RBI, 26 stolen bases and 14 runs scored. On the mound, Martin pitched 32.2 innings with a 3-2 record, 38 strikeouts and a 3.70 ERA.

Newport baseball coach Thad Trepanier said Martin’s attitude set him apart.

“Brad was a blessing to coach,” Trepanier said. “His attitude and the way he goes about things are the reason why he gets an opportunity to play at the next level.”

Martin credited much of his growth to Newport football coach, Dave Pamonte.

“Coach Pamonte had the biggest impact on me during my high school career,” Martin said. “With lifting in morning workouts, game planning for football, and the lifelong lessons he taught me throughout my high school career.”

At Spokane Falls, Martin said he hopes to earn playing time immediately while continuing to improve his work ethic and overall game. Long term, his goals are even bigger.

“I hope baseball takes me to a Division I school beyond SFCC and later on become a professional baseball player,” Martin said.

For now, though, Martin said leaving Newport athletics behind will not be easy.

“I’m gonna miss all my friends and coaches I’ve built relationships with through athletics,” he said, “especially the football atmosphere from my senior season.”

If his high school career is any indication, Martin’s future looks bright. Newport fans have watched him compete, lead and grow over the past four years, and there is little doubt many will continue cheering him on as his baseball journey continues at the next level.