Often called the quarterback whisperer, Tom Martinez, a life-long mentor and unofficial coach to New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, passed away Tuesday in California. Martinez reportedly suffered a sudden heart attack during a dialysis treatment on his 66th birthday.
A retired coach at the College of San Mateo with over 1,400 wins to his credit, Martinez was considered more than a coach to Brady. He was considered family. Every offseason, Brady and Martinez would continue to improve Brady's throwing mechanics as both sought perfection.
The two worked together since Brady was just a teen and their relationship grew as the quarterback played college football at the University of Michigan then joined the New England Patriots. After Brady's first win as a starter in 2001, Brady sent Martinez the game ball with the inscription: "Coach Martinez — Thanks — The first of many — 9/30/01 — Patriots 44, Colts 13 — Tom Brady #12." Many others followed as Brady went on to win three Super Bowls and shatter numerous team and league passing records.
In the summer of 2011, Martinez announced that he was battling diabetes and cancer. Brady stepped up to help Martinez find a kidney donor. As a result, more than 300 potential donors were tested through MatchingDonors.com while the awareness of organ donation spread much further.
Martinez was told his time was short as kidney failure had begun but giving up was never an option for him. "I've been told I'm out of here, and I don't accept that," he said.
Brady, who was photographed with his family and receiver Wes Welker in Costa Rica earlier in the week, spoke about their bond prior to Super Bowl XLIV.
"He taught me how to throw the football at a young age," Brady said. "I'm forever indebted to him. We've worked together for over 20 years trying to work on my mechanics and nail those down. He's had a great commitment to me... Talk about a perfectionist--he's a perfectionist and he doesn't let anything slide with me. I owe so much to him. I love him. I love his family. He’s got a great family and I enjoy being with him and working with him."
Our condolences to the family members and friends of Tom Martinez.
Comments