I was so very fortunate to be a part of the 1974 Bethany Tennis Team from which I have formed lifetime friendships and have incredible memories. Tony, as the #1 player was our leader and was very good to me. I remember well on the eve of our conference tournament in Winfield the team was sharing a double room in our motel. The next morning, Tony was the first one up and was in the process of waking everyone from a deep sleep. Once we were all up and beginning to get ready, someone checked their watch. “Tony, it is only 2 AM!” With a collective groan, we all returned to bed to try to salvage a nights rest. I remember Tony with his grin making a feeble explanation as to how it happened. No one could be angry at Tony.
I am so happy I was able to spend an evening with Tony and Susan in Montego Bay, Jamaica a few years ago. It was as if we had not missed a beat. We talked old times and got up to date on each other’s families. I learned that night of Tony’s health status, but it was not what he dwelled on. I was hoping I could see Tony this October at the Bethany Tennis center dedication, but instead we will raise a glass or two in his memory, and talk old times. So long Tony, those from the ‘74 team will miss you. To put it simply, Tony Martin was a really, really, good guy. My most sincere condolences to Susan, Sean, and Tiffany.