Kiahn Martinez (in red on the right) running after dodging a tackle against Western Colorado. (Photo by Jayson Ortiz)
March 2024. Colorado State University Pueblo graduate/senior running back Kiahn Martinez faced every athlete’s nightmare: a devastating ACL and meniscus tear during spring ball.
What was supposed to be a promising preseason turned into months of grueling rehabilitation, filled with physical and mental battles. Now, a year later, Martinez is on the verge of making his long-awaited return to the field, driven by a newfound resilience and a hunger to prove that one injury won’t define his career.
During a routine play in spring ball, Martinez planted his foot only to feel an excruciating pop. Instantly, he knew something was wrong. The diagnosis confirmed his worst fears, an ACL tear accompanied by meniscus damage. The road ahead was clear: surgery, rehabilitation and a long recovery process. For any athlete, an ACL tear is more than just a physical setback; it’s a mental battle of patience, discipline and self-belief.
“My first thought was, ‘Why me?’ but when it was getting close to surgery, I knew God had a bigger plan than we have for ourselves. It was hard to get my mind wrapped around it, but just like everything else in life, I knew I had to trust the process,” Martinez said.
Martinez attacked his rehab with the same intensity he brings to the gridiron. From early morning physical therapy sessions to late night strengthening routines, his focus never wavered. The process required discipline, consistency and mental toughness.
“The rehab process was very repetitive, but all I could think about was getting back on the field. That’s what kept me motivated to keep doing the rehab. But I also had days that I didn’t want to do it. Then I had days where I couldn’t wait to do it. By the end of everything, it’s all worth it,” Martinez said.
But it wasn’t just the physical hurdles that tested him. Martinez spoke candidly about the mental strain of recovery. The self-doubt, the frustration and the fear of reinjury. He credits his family, coaches and teammates for keeping him motivated throughout the process.
Now, with the season approaching, Martinez is eager to get back on the field and make an impact. His perspective on the game has evolved. No longer taking the sport for granted, he’s driven by a deep appreciation for every snap, every yard and every moment he gets to compete.
“I’m just blessed to play the game that I love after going through a traumatic injury like that, so I’m just happy with the daily wins to know that the bigger wins will come. Not only has my appreciation for the love of the game grown, but my appreciation for the little things has also amplified in this chapter in my life,” Martinez said.
As Martinez prepares for his senior season, he carries with him the lessons learned from his time away from the game. His comeback isn’t just about returning to the field; it’s about showing resilience, proving doubters wrong and inspiring others facing similar challenges.
Fans can expect to see a more determined, focused and appreciative Martinez. Whether he’s breaking through tackles or making game-changing plays, his journey from injury to recovery will undoubtedly make every yard he gains even more meaningful.
Martinez’s story is a testament to the unwavering spirit of athletes, their ability to overcome adversity, defy the odds and come back stronger. And this season, CSU Pueblo fans will get to witness his inspiring return firsthand.
