It was the game of Dawit Martin's life, on a day his life forever changed.
On Tuesday, The graduating senior from Niagara Wheatfield took the field for the Falcons quarterfinal lacrosse game against cross-town rival North Tonawanda. Just hours before, Martin lost his grandfather.
"I knew he would want me to play, especially because it's the playoffs. He loves the game."
Martin led the Falcons to an impressive 23-1 win, but he didn't just score once, or twice, he found the back of the net an incredible eight times, with has 'papa' watching over him.
"I thought about him right away. I looked up and knew he was watching down on me."
After the first half, Martin broke down in tears as he embraced family and friends on the sideline. His teammates told him they'd do everything they could to lift him up on and off he field -- but all Martin could think about was the man who taught him the game he loves.
"He'd be here, I know he'd be here if he could be."
Martin and the Falcons will host Williamsville North on Thursday.
