Connor Martin

Connor Martin is the Associate Head Coach at Smith College.

Connor Martin, associate head coach and assistant sports information director at Smith College, has been instrumental in the resurgence of the Pioneers volleyball program. With a reputation for excellence in player development, strategic innovation, and program leadership, Martin has helped elevate Smith Volleyball to national prominence. In 2024, Martin played a pivotal role in leading the Pioneers to a historic season, culminating in the program’s first NEWMAC Championship since 2005.

The team posted an impressive 31-7 record, defeated AVCA No. 4 MIT in the championship match, and advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in nearly two decades. The Pioneers reached the second round and achieved a program-first milestone of having three players—Taylor Gwynne, Abby Sweeney, and Abby Hunt—recognized as AVCA All-American Honorable Mentions. Martin’s contributions extend far beyond wins and accolades.

Known for his ability to maximize player potential, he is a tireless advocate for fostering a championship culture that emphasizes accountability, trust, and teamwork. His leadership on the court and in practice has been a cornerstone of Smith’s competitive resurgence. A seasoned coach, Martin rejoined Smith College in 2024 as the associate head coach after spending the 2023 season as the first assistant coach at the College of the Holy Cross, an NCAA Division I program in the Patriot League. At Holy Cross, Martin oversaw recruiting, player development, and tactical preparation, refining his expertise at the Division I level while making a lasting impact on the program.

Prior to his stint at Holy Cross, Martin spent two seasons as a graduate assistant at Smith, during which the Pioneers laid the foundation for their current success. His innovative coaching methods and commitment to excellence helped the team achieve postseason appearances and continued growth. A former collegiate athlete himself, Martin brings firsthand experience to his coaching philosophy, focusing on technical precision, mental toughness, and team cohesion. His competitive mindset, combined with a keen ability to adapt strategies to his athletes’ strengths, has been a defining factor in his success.

In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Martin serves as Smith College’s assistant sports information director, where he highlights the achievements of Smith’s student-athletes and programs, helping to raise the profile of Pioneer Athletics across the NCAA landscape. Martin’s return to Smith has marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the volleyball program as it continues its rise as a national contender. His dedication to the growth of his athletes and program culture ensures that Smith Volleyball is poised for sustained success for years to come.

THE MARTIN FILE

Hometown: Douglas, MA

Education

• Smith College - Master of Science, Exercise & Sports Studies (2023)
• Mary Washington, 2021

COACHING CAREER

• 2023-24 College of the Holy Cross (Assistant Coach)
• 2021-23 Smith College (Graduate Assistant Coach)
• Mary Washington (Student Assistant Coach/Team Manager)

BY THE NUMBERS

• 2024 NCAA Tournament Appearance (First in almost two decades)
• 2024 First NCAA Tournament win
• 2024 NEWMAC Champions (First since 2005)
• 2024 30+ Win season
• 3x AVCA All-American Selections
• 2x 2024 NEWMAC Tournament Co-MVPs
• 6 AVCA All-Region Selections
• 4 NEWMAC All-Conference Selections
• 4x AVCA Team Academic Team Awards
• 25 NEWMAC Academic All-Conference Selections