Athlete Spotlight: Derrick Martin
Jackson County athlete Derrick Martin recently answered a Q&A about his interests and activity within Special Olympics Indiana. Martin was one of 55 athletes celebrated at the 2024 Summer Games and helped throw out the first pitch at the Opening Ceremony.
How long have you been involved in Special Olympics? Since 2019
How did you get involved? Mary Carlson asked me to join.
What sports do you do? Track and field, cornhole and bowling. And I coach basketball.
What is your favorite sport and why? My favorite sport is track and field. I like to go to Summer Games and meet new people.
What is your favorite Special Olympics memory? I was among the 55th anniversary honorees at Summer Games. Another is my team going to the state championship in basketball.
What’s a goal you want to accomplish? Becoming a coach and helping people.
What are your other Special Olympics activities? Athlete Leadership University, Athlete Leadership Council and Area 2 Athlete Leadership Council.
Hometown: Chicago.
Residence: Seymour.
Birthday: June 11.
Family: Mother, two sisters, two nephews.
Job: Jay C Food Store
Favorite movie: “The Color Purple.”
Favorite TV shows: “Good Times, “Sanford and Son, “I Love Lucy.”
Favorite singer: Anita Baker.
Favorite food: Soul food.
Favorite restaurant: Cheesecake Factory.
Favorite sports team: Chicago Bulls.
Favorite place to visit: New Orleans.