Determined junior Carlo Gonzalez Martinez fights through setbacks and competition to turn his high school soccer dreams into reality. Carlo is mentioned to have a cool, calm, composed attitude when out on the field, “He always hustles to get the ball when he loses it which he rarely ever does.” 

He was inspired to play by watching the Mexican National Team when he was 4-years-old. “I just felt like it was what I was supposed to play and I ended up really enjoying it,” Martinez said. 

Martinez plays center mid. He has played club soccer since he was 6-years-old. He is said to be continuing club soccer throughout high school. Club soccer focuses on the players’ development and competition. Providing players to train and improve on their skills.

He hopes for a future in this sport after high school, he’s showing interest in some colleges such as the University of San Diego and the University of California, Santa Barbara because of the advanced soccer programs the schools provide. 

 Martinez’s main highlight at Poway High has been meeting new people that he would not have met outside of the sport. Martinez states how he believes he wouldnt have met a lot of the people outside of his sport due to the age differences they all share. Another highlight he enjoyed was him playing soccer with his friends. Who he hadn’t had the chance to play with before.  

His favorite game played was at Del Norte High School. He mentioned the struggle the whole team faced. Along with how it was a hard fought win. Believing that they weren’t supposed to win but did. 

 “It was a game that they were definitely better than us on paper, and they probably should have won the soccer game, but we ended up winning,” Martinez said. 

 He’s a leader, good with his feet, and has a great attitude,” Head Coach Gene Morris said. With Martinez only being a junior Coach Gene Morris mentions that he brings good moves on the field along with his great attitude.

Martinez’s favorite team memories are all the fun pasta parties they have had because he liked getting the chance to bond with people on the team. “

 Martinez’s teammate senior Christian Gurra appreciates what Martinez brings to the field.        “He’s never nervous when getting passed the ball and has a great attitude. He always hustles to get the ball when he loses it which he rarely ever does.” .

Martinez is well acknowledged for his impressive moves on the field. Along with his lack of nervousness.  When watching Martinez on the field he displayed sharp footwork and good control. Despite the pressure he faced when getting the ball he stayed calm and made good passes. His confidence showed throughout the game further proving his lack of nervousness. 

Martinez plans on continuing soccer throughout his junior year and onto his senior year.