Martinez lands first offer, gaining interest

Port St. Lucie (Fla.) St. Lucie West Centennial offensive guard Justin Martinez is starting to receive increased interest from college coaches.

"It is just starting to pick up a little bit," Martinez said. "I am getting interest from Cincinnati, South Carolina, Wake Forest, FIU, and from an e-mail I got yesterday it looks like Arkansas is going to start recruiting me too."

One school has already stepped forth with a verbal offer.

"I just have one official offer from Western Kentucky," Martinez said. "They offered me on Monday."

The 6-foot-3, 285-pound interior offensive lineman has been in regular contact with the Hilltoppers since they extended the offer.

"I am on the phone with them like every day or every other day," Martinez said. "I have been talking with Coach (Eric) Mathies, he is the one recruiting me. He has just told me that the whole coaching staff fell in love with me when they saw my game tape. They just tell me that they think I would probably have a chance to play early in my career when I get there. They said it is a good environment to play in and that they have a good fanbase."

He plans to check out Willie Taggart's program later this month.

"I am planning to visit Western Kentucky later this month," Martinez said. "I am going during my spring break."

At this time, that is the only visit that Martinez has planned. He does not claim a leader at this time.