Westlake's Martello Named NEC Defensive Player of the Week

Westlake's Sam Martello, a St. Edward High School graduate, was one of two Duquesne University students honored by the Northeast Conference (NEC) for their performance in Duquesne's 35-24 win over Albany on Aug. 31.

Martello, a linebacker for the university, was named NEC co-Defensive Player of the Week. Freshman quarterback Dillon Buechel (of McKees Rocks, Pa) was named co-rookie of the week. 

The 6-0, 205 lb. Martello was named the league's co-Defensive Player of the Week on the strength of a pair of big plays. The 6-0, 209-pounder teamed with Aaron Reed to tackle UA's Kevin Chillis for a 13-yard loss and safety on the first play from scrimmage. In the third quarter, Martello sacked Albany's Will Fiacchi, forcing a fumble that was recovered by Dorian Bell. The play was followed by Buechel's pass to Carter. The Ohio native finished with 6 tackles (4 solo). 

According to the Duquesne Dukes official website, Martello played in all 11 games in 2012-13 with starts in the last two for injured outside linebacker Dorian Bell. He finished with 33 tackles (16 solo) and  had a season-high nine stops in the season finale at Wagner.

At St. Edward, the team captain was the leading tackler and with 121 stops for St. Edward's 15-0 Ohio Division 1 State Championship team in 2010. Martello added 10 tackles and three sacks for a 2010 Eagles team that finished the season ranked among the nation's Top 5 teams by a number of media outlets. .

In addition to Duquesne, he considered Toledo, Ohio, Columbia, Dartmouth and William & Mary .

Martello is majoring in accounting.