Sports Digest

RHS alum Martin announces end of football career

Rhinelander High School alumnus Drake Martin, who recently wrapped up his college football career at UW-Whitewater, announced this past weekend that he is hanging up the cleats for good instead of pursuing playing opportunities at the professional level.

“After much reflection, I have decided to no longer pursue playing professional football and retire from playing,” Martin shared via social media Sunday. “It’s not an easy decision but it is one that feels right for me and my physical health. Playing football has been a huge part of my life and I’m forever thankful to the sport. Thank you to everyone who has ever supported me throughout my career. It is truly amazing how much support I have received through the years. While I won’t be pursuing playing anymore, my passion for the game remains the same, and I am looking forward to coaching. Thanks again to everyone involved. I’m excited for what’s next.”

Martin, a 2020 RHS grad, amassed 3,537 rushing yards at Rhinelander to finish second behind Troy Doering on the school’s all-time list. Martin was a three-time All-Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference honoree at Whitewater. He received first-team honors as a special teamer in 2022, first-team honors at tight end in 2023 and second-team honors at tight end this past fall.

Used primarily as a fullback/tight end hybrid the last two seasons, Martin recorded nine career touchdowns at Whitewater — seven receiving and two rushing. 

Black River Falls shuts out Northland Pines girls hockey

The Northland Pines girls’ hockey co-op lost to Black River Falls 4-0 Friday at the Eagle River Sports Arena. The Eagles, who were outshot 54-5 in the contest, allowed one goal in the first period and three goals in the second period.

Northland Pines freshman Lucy Now made 50 saves in the loss. The co-op includes six skaters from Rhinelander.

The Eagles (2-5-0) head south for a pair of games this weekend, taking on the Badger Lightning in Baraboo this afternoon and the Icebergs co-op in Stoughton tomorrow.