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Kelly Martin was playing just as she had in every other game; with pure determination and an undying love for the game. Suddenly, her entire basketball career flashed before her eyes as she landed awkwardly on her left foot. The scrimmage against Roger Williams occurred on November 4, one week before their opening game.
"I was actually fouled on the play so I went to the foul line and took two free throws" said Martin about the moments directly after her season-ending injury. "Then we got the ball back and I tried to take a step and that is when I knew something very serious had happened."
Martin was diagnosed with a Lisfranc fracture in her left foot, meaning she had torn a major ligament and displaced the bones in her mid-foot.
Kelly's surgery was scheduled for November 14, therefore putting an end to her senior basketball season at Stonehill College. However, Martin plans for a fifth year at Stonehill, meaning she is currently hyper focused on rehabbing her foot to be back next year.
Kelly's basketball history begins early in Scituate rec leagues and continues through Scituate travel teams, Bay State Magic AAU, Scituate High School Varsity, and ultimately Stonehill College Varsity.
"We all know how much she loves this game, and if there is anyone who didn't deserve this to happen, it is Kelly Martin," said sophomore forward, Tayler Wornum.
Aside from focusing on her own rehabilitation so she can be back on the basketball court for the 2017-2018 season, Martin has also taken on a pseudo-coaching position.
Head Coach for Stonehill, Trisha Brown commented, "When Kelly could have been very self-focused after her injury, it was so impressive to see her focus her attention on the team and what they needed."
Martin's expansive knowledge of the sport allows her to be an integral asset to the team, even if she can't be on the court with them.
"She still beats the team in shooting competition," noted freshman guard, Grace Carter. "She is the strongest person and best leader I know." Even on crutches, Kelly is determined to be back with her teammates as soon as possible.
Fellow senior, Casey McLaughlin faced a career ending injury her freshman year. McLaughlin has been there for Kelly to "remind her of her amazing impact on this team and all she has done for this program."
During Kelly's rehab process for her foot, Head Athletic Trainer at Stonehill, Pete Krysko, has been instrumental in her work.
"I just sit and admire her relentless pursuit to heal and stay ready for whatever her next step is," said Coach Brown.
With her fifth year of basketball in sight at Stonehill College, Kelly Martin continues to work hard to be back in full health to play with her teammates.