Martinsville HS graduate, Cox, to play football and track at Trine University
MARTINSVILLE, Ind. — Tyler Cox is a 2021 graduate of Martinsville High School where he stood out on the football field. When # 28 got the football in his hands there was no catching him. Every game fans would see at least one play where Tyler was running down the field and three opponents were chasing him.
Tyler understood that a running back needs strength and power to break through tacklers at the line of scrimmage. However, he found it was also crucial for the player to improve speed and agility. He focused on his feet, working on quickness, and practicing explosive movements. His training sessions consisted of getting up at 5:30 a.m. and heading to the gym. Tyler said he really liked to work his legs by doing the explosive exercises needed to be a good running back. In the evenings he would head to the hill at Jimmy Nash Park in Martinsville. The park hill is the place where he developed his speed. “The hill is better for getting the knees up higher,” according to Tyler.” That’s where the power and speed come from.” Training on hills improved his leg-muscle strength, quickened his stride, expanded stride length, developed his cardiovascular system, enhanced his running and even protected his leg muscles against soreness and injury. Running hills made him a stronger, faster and healthier runner.
When asked about his football career Tyler was very humble. He never used the word “I” but always chose the word “team”. He credited his offensive line in helping him achieve his yardage. He stated that even though his offensive line was an undersized group of boys, they did one heck of a job. They worked hard every day in practice and were a big part of everything the team accomplished. Without the offensive line neither Tyler nor the team would have been who they were. Not only was he the second all- time leading rusher for Martinsville High School he still stands today third in a couple other records. “I wasn’t looking to set records,” reminisced Tyler.” I just wanted to play the game.”
Tyler will be remembered as a main attraction in football but also a Martinsville track star making it to state finals with three teammates running the 4×100.
This fall Tyler will be attending Trine University on a scholarship to play football and run track. Only two percent of high school athletes are awarded some form of athletic scholarship. So, well done, Tyler!
Congratulations on your achievements. We are proud to call you an Artesian.
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