Former Trojan and all-time NCAA Division I tackle leader Carlton Martial continues to earn recognition during his professional career.
Martial, who plays for the Kuopio Steelers in Finland, was named a 2024 All-Star for the Vaahteraliiga. The Vaahteraliiga – or Maple League – is Finland’s highest professional American football league.
“My reaction [to being an All-Star] was so what, now what,” said Martial. “I was excited, but the thing about football is there are always places where you can improve.
“Being named an All-Star was a great achievement, but I’m still making strides in learning more about the game as my career continues.”
The Troy legend added another accolade to his resume after the All-Star season in Finland. Martial was a three-time All-American at Troy, making four All-Sun Belt teams and being named the Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Year, as well as Male Athlete of the Year.
In just nine regular season games with the Steelers, Martial tallied 27 solo tackles and 55 assisted tackles. The linebacker also snagged two interceptions, two pass breakups and a fumble recovery on his way to the All-Star award.
Playing overseas was an opportunity for Martial to further his career, but it didn’t come without challenges.
“Being able to continue to chase my dreams and play ball is all I could ask for,” Martial said.
“Being that far away [from my family] was new to me, but I feel I grew as a player and a person by making the most of my experience.”
The Steelers finished 9-3 in the regular season, second in the Maple League. However, their season ended in the playoffs after the Seinäjoki Crocodiles defeated them.
“Becoming a part of the Finnish and Kuopio Steeler culture definitely came with a learning curve,” said Martial. “However, I enjoyed my time there, and the people I’ve met were nothing but wonderful.
“Making great connections with people from different backgrounds is one of the most beautiful things about the game.”
Martial finished his Troy career atop the all-time tackles list with 577 total tackles, anchoring the Trojans defense and leading them to a Sun Belt Championship in 2022.
Although his exact future is unknown at the moment, Martial said he has teams reaching out and other opportunities in the sports world, and he’s looking forward to whatever is next.
“God doesn’t make mistakes -- He puts you in a position where He knows you will thrive,” Martial said. “We have to remember it’s on His time, not ours.”
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