**José Luis “Kabuky” Martínez Receives Recognition from OEFA**
Coach and former player, José Luis “Kabuky” Martínez, was honored by the Baja California Student Football Organization (OEFA) on Saturday, September 21, before the game between Águilas and Zorros in Tijuana.
The recognition took place at the Estadio Margarita Astiazarán de Fimbres, where OEFA Commissioner Argenis García Luna presented the award to the distinguished coach. Martínez, who has served as head coach for several teams including Instituto México, was accompanied by his players: Héctor Castellanos, Armando Ledesma, Armando López, Vicente Pérez, Ramiro Thomas, and José Luis Vázquez. The 2024 season has been named in his honor.
In 1977, as a player, Martínez persuaded Instituto México’s leadership to create an American football program, adopting the eagle as the team’s mascot—a symbol that the institution still uses today. By 1980, as a player, he helped his team win their first championship in the Municipal League of American Football (Limfa) by defeating Zopilotes from the Altamira neighborhood. Martínez went on to further his studies at the University of Monterrey, returning in 1983 to lead the Águilas to multiple championships.
Under his leadership, the Águilas won the Limfa championship against the Center for Technical and Higher Education (Cetys), Tijuana campus, in 1983, and the Baja California Athletic Collegiate Association (Acabc) championship against Aguiluchos from Tecate in 1984. They repeated these achievements in 1984 and 1985. The team became runners-up for the next two years before capturing the first Baja California Tazón from OEFA in 1989.
In 1990, Martínez concluded his coaching career by joining the Apaches from the Limfa’s major league and later became a commentator for San Diego Chargers games broadcasted via XEXX in Tijuana.
At the Cetys campus in Tijuana, after heartfelt words from Héctor Castellanos, Martínez expressed his happiness and pride at receiving recognition for his efforts in advancing the sport in the state.
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**Additional News on José Luis “Kabuky” Martínez:**
José Luis “Kabuky” Martínez’s contribution to American football extends beyond coaching. Throughout his career, he has been dedicated to developing young talents and instilling a passion for the sport in Baja California. His legacy includes not only multiple team championships but also a commitment to fostering a strong football community in the region.
Martínez’s impact was further celebrated by former students and fellow coaches, who praised his dedication and innovative coaching methods. “Kabuky has always been ahead of his time, using techniques and strategies that we are only now beginning to appreciate fully,” said one of his former assistants.
As American football continues to grow in popularity in Mexico, mentors like José Luis “Kabuky” Martínez play a crucial role in nurturing enthusiastic athletes and preparing them for higher levels of competition. His recent recognition by OEFA highlights the widespread appreciation and respect he commands within the community.