Playing in the shadows of a star player can sometimes be frustrating. But for Beggs junior Red Martell it’s been worth the wait. For the last two years Martell, a VYPE TOP 100 pick, played behind CJ Brown who many considered one of the top 10 players in the state last year and is now an Oklahoma State Cowboy.

“Playing behind C.J. was a learning experience and I’m glad I got to learn from him. He taught me a lot and helped me mature and I admired how humble he was despite his success,” said Red.

Even playing as the number two running back, Martell rushed for 1700 yards and 22 touchdowns last year.

“Red has patiently waited for his turn and all that time has been an integral part of our offense since ninth grade,” said Golden Demon coach David Tenison. “Now that C.J. is gone, Red is our guy. The thing I like about Red is his maturity. He’s accepted the challenge to not only be the main running back but also to be a team leader. I think the kids could see that early in the season when he would run the ball and make positive yards out of plays that looked like they were going nowhere.”

In preparation for his turn in the spotlight, Martell spent more time in the weight room this past summer to gain some strength to become more of a power runner.

“I try to show that that I can do everything as a running back. I’m catching the ball more out of the backfield this year and feel like I’m running with more power and speed, “said Martell who won the 100-meter title at the state track meet his freshman year.

Growing up Red says he liked to watch former Sooner running back DeMarco Murray who has visited with him some in his capacity as the Sooners running back coach.

“I watched him when I was young, and he was a running back at OU and now it’s a blessing that’s he’s recruiting me. I liked the way he ran and how he carries himself and he’ s a pretty humble guy.”

In addition to football and track, Red also plays baseball for the Demons and basketball where he’s experienced one of the highlights of his high school career.

“We went to state in basketball my freshman year and playing at the Big House was sure a highlight for me,” said Martell who is involved in student council and the National Honor Society outside of his sports.

Though he’s got two more years to make an even greater impression, Martell has already received offers to play college football from Colorado and Kansas.