Former Tiger football standout Zack Martin will attend Union College in Barbourville, Ky. this fall following an outstanding prep career at Dawson County High School.

The fullback and linebacker was named by the The Times of Gainesville as a first team All-Area defensive player. Martin recorded 129 tackles, three sacks and had one interception for Tiger defensive coordinator, Jed Lacey last season.

On offense, the bruising runner accumulated 612 yards and 10 touchdowns.

"Playing college football has been a dream of mine since I was a little kid. It feels great to see all of my hard work pay off," Martin said.

Even though Martin excelled on defense last year, it appears that at the collegiate level, he will most likely play offense.

"I was recruited at first for linebacker, but the coaching staff decided that it would be best for the team if I were to play on offense. So I will be playing full back," Martin said.

He said the coaching staff at the college was a big reason for his decision to continue his career there.

"I chose Union College because I love their coaching staff and I got along well with the players on my visits. I had a choice between Reinhardt University, Union and the University of the Cumberlands, but I decided to stick with Union," he said.

Coach Tommy Reid will lead the Bulldogs in his 13th season as head coach at the school. Union plays in the Mid-South Conference, which is affiliated with the NAIA.

Last season, Union finished with a 4-7 overall record and finished 1-4 in conference play.

"Coach Reid is a great coach he has coached there for a long time and it's nice to know that a foundation had already been laid for us to start winning," said Martin.

Planning to major in history, Martin said he hopes to someday become a teacher and a coach.

Union will play its opening game on Aug. 31 at Cumberlands. Zack reported for preseason camp last week.