SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Eddy Marin, a goalkeeper who began his college soccer journey at Santa Clara, finally took to the field as a starter in October 2023, after taking a redshirt year. Facing Stanford, Marin made an impact with four critical saves, including one from a penalty kick, in what ultimately became his only game of the season.
Tragedy struck just nine days later when Marin was involved in a serious accident. While riding a scooter to study, he was hit by a car, leaving him in a critical state. He was unconscious for over a week and, upon regaining consciousness, he had to deal with a series of debilitating injuries, including lost vision in his right eye, partial deafness in his left ear, a broken wrist, and an aneurysm requiring surgery, marking the first of six surgeries necessary in the ensuing months.
Despite these setbacks, Marin has made a remarkable recovery and has been medically cleared to train in anticipation of the upcoming fall season. For his strength and determination, Marin has been honored with the CalHOPE Courage Award for February. Another recipient of the award is Natalie Glenn, a senior beach and indoor volleyball player from Long Beach State, who has also shown extraordinary resilience.
Glenn faced her challenges after her father, former NFL receiver Terry Glenn, tragically passed away in a car accident during her high school years. Overcoming depression and grief, she found solace and strength through counseling and the unwavering support from her family and friends. On the volleyball court, she honors her father’s memory by wearing the number 83, a tribute to the jersey number he wore during his time with the Cowboys and at Ohio State.
Eddy Marin’s award will be presented to him during an on-field ceremony at the San Jose Earthquakes match against Colorado at PayPal Park, while Natalie Glenn was already acknowledged during a recent team practice. Despite ongoing health challenges, Marin returned to university for the winter quarter and continued to be active with his team, showcasing a notable spirit of resilience.
“This journey has tested me in all aspects, but my faith and the people close to me have supported me throughout,” Marin reflected. “I share my story in hopes of inspiring others, showing that miracles do happen.”
Natalie Glenn echoed similar sentiments about her own struggles. “Therapy taught me the importance of accepting help,” she shared. “With my father being a public figure, sharing my story was vital so others understand that they’re not alone. Finding strength in accepting support and letting others in is crucial.”
The CalHOPE Courage Award, a collaboration between the College Sports Communicators, CalHOPE, and the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being, aims to honor student-athletes who overcome personal adversities to achieve success in their sports. In recognition of these courageous student-athletes, a donation will be made to support mental health initiatives at their universities.
