In recounting the story of Xaverian football, there can really be no discussion that doesn’t include the significant achievements of Xavier Martin '07.
A three-year Varsity player, Xavier was the driving force behind Xaverian's first-ever CHSAA championship in his senior year, rushing for 158 yards in the team’s dominant 49-27 win over Fordham Prep. He made history as the first Clipper to run for 1,000 yards in a single season, and later became the first to accomplish that feat in consecutive seasons. By the time he graduated, Xavier had accumulated over 3,000 career rushing yards, making him Xaverian’s all-time leading rusher.
Xavier's exceptional talent earned him numerous honors, including two team MVP awards, Tablet All-Star recognition, CHSAA All-League, Staten Island Advance All-Star, New York Daily News All-City, and All-State Class A honors from the New York State Sportswriters.
“Xavier was a very special player,” recalled Coach Dom Laurendi. “He was a foundation for the success of the entire program. He was the best running back in the league and always delivered in big moments. He was as coachable as he was talented and a great teammate.”
Xavier continued his football career at Fordham University, where he was named the Patriot League Freshman of the Year, earned three All-Conference selections, and finished his career as the third all-time leading rusher in Rams history.