The Puerto Rico Islanders announce that the winner of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company's Fan Player of the Year award is defender Richard Martínez. Martínez garnered the majority of the fans' votes on the Puerto Rico Islanders' Official Facebook Page. The Highland, New York native recently announced his retirement from professional football to pursue other opportunities outside the sport.
"Congratulations to Richard for being awarded the Puerto Rico Tourism Company's Fan Player of the Year. I am sure you have all seen recently that Richard has announced his retirement from professional soccer to concerntrate on taking care of his family and we all wish him well in his new adventure," said Head Coach Adrian Whitbread.
Martínez saw 2070 minutes of action in the NASL, becoming one of the leaders in minutes for the Islanders, providing 1 assist and scoring 1 goal. Martínez became one of the top defenders in the league, winning Defender of the Week in Week 18 after a 2-1 Islanders' win over the San Antonio Scorpions. The dependable right back also saw action with the Puerto Rico National Team, being called up to play against reigning World Champions, Spain, on August 15th and in the Caribbean Cup Qualifiers.
