James [quote]Jim[quote] A. Martin, Sr. is the Director of Athletics ad Alabama A&M University. In this capacity he oversees the daily operation of the athletic department staff and the 19 varsity sports sponsored by the school.
Martin has made numerous changes in the operation of the athletic department since beginning in 1998. Under his watch, three sports -- softball, soccer and bowling - have been added to the list of varsity sports open to women.
An academic center has been opened for the student athletes to use as a study hall and to help monitor the matriculation of the 300-plus student-athletes enrolled. Several coaches have been hired and several staff members added.
Martin is a 1966 graduate of Alabama A&M, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER). He journeyed to the school from Montgomery on a football scholarship. Playing under the legendary Louis Crews, Martin made a name for himself as a running back.
In 1970, Martin received a Master of Science degree in HPER from the University of Alabama.
Beginning in 1970, Martin coached football and baseball at Tuskegee Institute (now University). As head baseball coach, Martin guided the Golden Tigers
to 10 SIAC championships in 18 years, placing three pitchers in the major leagues. He was honored as SIAC Coach of the Year seven times.
After 13 years as an assistant football coach at Tuskegee, Martin was given the head job. He compiled a 44-42-2 record over nine years, winning two SIAC championships (1987, 1991), being named SIAC Coach of the Year twice (1987, 1991) and breaking the Division II top 20 ranking once (1987). Three of his players went on to the NFL.
In 1988, Martin made his entry into athletic administration as the Athletic Director for Tuskegee. South Carolina State wooed him away in 1993 and he made Orangeburg his home for two years, leaving for Long Island University (NY) in 1995. After a two-year stint, Martin returned to his alma mater as Athletic Director.
Martin is married to his college sweetheart, Joyce, and the father of three children, James, Jr., Jennifer, and Joy.
