The crew's little engine room that could - Rising Star: Kyle Martino - Brief Article

Soccer Digest, Oct-Nov, 2002 by Joseph D'Hippolito

WHILE LANDON DONOVAN, DaMarcus Beasley, and Taylor Twellman spent the summer becoming poster boys for American soccer, Kyle Martino was quietly establishing himself as the Columbus Crew's playmaker. Martino, 21, made his first start four games into his rookie season, displacing John Wilmar Perez, a two-year starter, the Crew's 2001 team MVP and last year's co-league leader in assists.

"I've had success because my coach has confidence in me," says Martino. "He put me in a position that most 21-year-old American kids don't get to play. Having his and the players' confidence helped me make a greater impact this year than I expected."

Crew coach Greg Andrulis believe? Martino's confidence is appropriate. "Kyle's very gifted with tremendous vision and creativity that's not normally seen in too many young Americans," says Andrulis. "He also keeps everything in proper context. Nothing has gone to his head. He has a tremendous future."

Martino joined MLS's Project-40 after three seasons at Virginia, the last of which he was named the ACC's player of the year. Columbus selected him in the first round of the 2002 draft with the eighth overall pick.

Martino has competed with the United States' U-18, U-20, and U-23 teams. He played in the 2001 World Youth Championship in Argentina. Nevertheless, Martino views MLS as critical to his development. "The only way you can become a true professional is to be in a professional environment, says Martino. "You learn how much a professional season asks of you not only mentally, but of your body. Halfway through the season, I hit a wall physically.

"The major difference in the pros compared with collegiate soccer is the speed of thought. I have to try to think about what I want to do with the ball before it gets to my feet."

Martino has already spoken with U.S. national team coach Bruce Arena about what it would take to perform internationally. "The modern playmaker has to create chances and take goal-scoring chances, but you need to put in your defensive work, as well," says Martino. "There aren't very many one-way attackers or playmakers who don't play defense but only get involved offensively anymore.

"Bruce let me know that he has his eye on me. If I keep playing well and making an impact, maybe that door will eventually open."

At this rate, Martino's should soon be handed the key to that door.