University of San Francisco Athletics

New recruits Farley Gates, John Martens, and Eric Booker add dimension to this year's team. With the return of four starters and the top three reserves from last year's WCAC co-championship team, the prospect of a new face emerging to assume a major role in the fortunes of the 1981-1982 USF Dons might appear slim. Nevertheless, seven new players will be in uniform for the Dons this season, and it is the opinion of many observers that the success of this year's squad will depend a great deal upon the immediate contribution of at least a few of these individuals. The graduation of power forward Bart Bowers leaves Coach Pete Barry with an obvious gap to fill. However, an even more important task for Coach Barry will be developing the reserve strength along the entire front line that even last year's squad lacked. The names most often mentioned in fulfilling this need are those of senior Dave Hadfield, and freshmen John Martens, Farley Gates, and Mike Matheson. An Honorable Mention All-American, John Martens enjoyed a successful high school career at Newbury Park in Thousand Oaks, CA. Due to a minor injury suffered in practice, John was unable to play in the Dons exhibition victory over the University of Victoria, B.C. The 6-8 forward has since then returned to action, and will almost certainly see playing time in the season opener against Georgia on November 28.

John Martens came to the University of San Francisco two years ago full of dreams of becoming a standout college basketball player. Martens transferred to San Diego State after the 1981 season and was able to play immediately for the Aztecs after USF had dropped its basketball program in June 1981. He played three seasons at SDSU (TheFoghorn).