Martinelli earns Rookie of the Week honors

Freshman standout Jared Martinelli has been named Rookie of the Week by both the Atlantic 10 Conference and Philadelphia Soccer Six after tallying four points in three games.

Martinelli’s stellar week began with two assists in the home opener win against Manhattan, his first two collegiate points. On Friday in California, he recorded another assist against Cal-Poly, setting up redshirt sophomore Chas Wilson for Temple’s only goal of the game. Against Cal State Northridge last night, Jared Martinelli scored his much awaited first goal as an Owl in the 88th minute.

“It feels good to come in and have an impact as a freshman and just create chances for the team,” Martinelli said.

Martinelli, who attended Cumberland Valley High School in Mechanicsburg, Pa., ultimately chose Temple against Pittsburgh.

Despite earning the Rookie of the Week honors, he remains humble and focused on growing as a player.

“Personally, I could contribute to the team more by finishing more chances,” Martinelli said. “I could create more opportunities.”

After losing both of their games in California this past weekend, the reigning Rookie of the Week thinks this weekends home stand could be just what the Owls need to get in some kind of groove.

“This week is big for us to get back on track,” Martinelli said. “With a couple of home games, we can get back to .500.”

Temple hosts Saint Peter’s on Friday Sept. 21 and Howard on Sunday Sept. 23. at Ambler Campus.

-Tyler Sablich