Each home game, the Earthquakes select a Season Ticket Holder to be this week's Fan of the Match, presented by Avaya. The lucky fan is presented with the amazing opportunity to experience warmups from field level, sit on the team bench, get a bag of free Earthquakes merchandise, and last but not least, meet a player for a photograph right after warmups! This week's fan of the match is Craig Martyn (pictured left above).
SJEarthquakes.com: What first drew you into the Quakes?
Craig Martyn: First drawn to the Quakes with the very opening of MLS. Became season ticket holder during the championship years in the Casbah section(!). Was very sorry to see them go, and thank goodness for Soccer Silicon Valley keeping the name and the rights here, and to Lew Wolff for having the vision and wherewithal for bringing them back from Houston. Hey Houston, Thanks for the Wondo trade!
SJEQ: What is your background in soccer?
CM: Played for years as a kid and through high school. Have coached my boys and also at Westmont and Oak Grove High School. Still play in a league for over 35 guys here in San Jose. Always represent for team USA. Posted for the Quakes Open Tryout a few years ago, don't let it be said I didn't give them the chance. Am fifty next week so will only tryout one more time. Give me a #5 jersey and the nickname 'The Kracken'!
SJEQ: Who do you normally come to games with?
CM: Have 4 seats and bring family and friends. Anne and Ryan Martyn, Shirley Burke,(in law), kid's friends and buddies from school.
SJEQ: What were some of your favorite memories of Buck Shaw Stadium?
CM: A. The Opening Day Monsoon in 2007(against the Revolution, 1-0 loss) Huge downpour, shirts off. B. Lenhart scoring to finish off Lenhart Wig night. C. Beating the Galaxy to clinch Supporter's Shield on last day of 2012 season.
SJEQ: What's the best part of Avaya Stadium?
CM: The best part of the Avaya Stadium move is having a world class home. Fabulous atmosphere, sight lines, and niceties.
SJEQ: What have you enjoyed most about 2017?
CM: Best part of 2017 so far: Beating Housiton tonight and getting back above that red line!! Also the Open Cup dismantling of the Galaxy.
