Martin ready to meet with local Raider fans

By RHONDA COSTA-LANDERS

Appeal Staff Writer

On Jan. 25, 1981, linebacker Rod Martin made history in the NFL Super Bowl XV.

He intercepted Philadelphia Eagles' quarterback Ron Jaworski three times, a record which still stands today. The Raiders won that Super Bowl over the Eagles, 27-10.

"They tried to exploit me, to play hard on my side of the field," said Martin. "But I was ready for them.

"What they didn't know was that I was watching game films of them. We prepped for the Super Bowl. I was ready for them and I shut the door on them. Thank God."

Martin is the special guest of the Carson City Raiders Booster Club for their annual picnic and membership drive Sunday at Washoe Lake State Park. The picnic is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and is open to all football fans.

Martin was drafted in the 12th round of the 1977 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders, out of the University of Southern California. There were two picks by the Raiders in the 12th round. Mike Davis was the first pick. Martin played for the Raiders from 1977-1987.

Today, Martin, 54, works for USC as manager of technical and users support in its IT department, and lives in Manhattan Beach, Calif.

"I've been doing that for eight years now," he said.

Martin is involved in many charitable activities, including participating in charity golf tournaments, the occasional charity basketball game, and attending Raiders booster club functions.

"I do more charitable events when I have the opportunity," he said. "More athletes need to be role models. But it starts at home."

Martin has two daughters, one 25, the other is 20.

He is also on the board of a children's foster home program, and supports the United Way among other charities, including events with former San Diego Charger Junior Seau.

"It's that USC connection, you know," Martin said. "I do a lot with my former teammates from USC.

"Charity goes a long way, as long as it's helping."

Martin said he is looking forward to Sunday's visit with the Carson City Raiders Booster Club. He enjoys visiting with the faithful fans of the Silver and Black, something he has admired since his days on the team.

"They are the best fans in the world, without a doubt. They come from everywhere and you (players) develop a bond with them, a camaraderie. You're like family.

"And they show support no matter what. Good times and bad. You feel their energy on the field. The passion they have, it's just great."

Martin welcomes Raider fans to visit him Sunday and share their stories along with him sharing his. The club will also hold a live auction, drawing and kids games.

WHO: Rod Martin

WHAT: Carson City Raiders Booster Club annual picnic and membership drive

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, July 13

WHERE: Washoe Lake State Park

COST: Single membership $30; family $40. All others $10 donation.

CALL: 315-3518 or 232-9700