The Harlingen Cardinals have a pivotal game against Brownsville Hanna tonight.
One key factor will be senior wide receiver Ethan Martinez, who has provided the Cards an aerial attack with 41 receptions, 588 yards and six touchdowns. The Valley Morning Star had a chance to catch up with Martinez on the eve of the VMS Game of the Week.
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Q: It’s your senior year. Has it hit you that it’s your final season?
A: Yes, it has hit me, especially because it is flying by so fast. It’s almost the end of the season.
Q: You’re having a solid season. What where some things you worked on in the offseason?
A: I worked on my work ethic, which needed some repairs. I fell off the platform last year and that upset me because I did it to myself, so I knew I needed to work hard and keep grinding.
Q: What motivates you to play football?
A: Seeing my older brother play is what motivated me to go out and play football.
Q: How much does it mean to play for the Harlingen Cardinals football program?
A: I’ve wanted to play for the Cards ever since I was in elementary school. Now that I’m here, I want to make the most of it and play as hard as I can, and also to gain the most I can out of it and not just in football. I feel like I have acquired a lot.
Q: As a leader of the team, how do you help guide the underclassman?
A: I always tell them they will get out what they put in and to understand the expectations of the program.
Q: Talk about the connection you have with quarterback Daniel Ramirez?
A: Before the season, our connection wasn’t as strong. However, we both got better and progressed, and learned how to read defenses better.
Q: Who is your favorite NFL receiver and why?
A: It would have to be Dallas Cowboys Terrence Williams because when his number is called he steps in and makes big plays when he’s needed.
