Billings Central‘s Martin and Billings West’s Curnow shine as Athletes of the Week
🏈 Central Quarterback Leads Rams to State Title, 🏀 Curnow Captains Lady Bears to 2021 Championship
Brian Howie Martin will never forget the chills he felt stepping onto the Herb Klindt Field turf for the Class A state championship game last Saturday, notebook and pencil in hand. As a sports reporter, I was assigned to cover the historic showdown between the Billings Central Rams and their rivals, the Laurel Locomotives. Martin, a junior quarterback/cornerback sensation, had my full attention. Throughout Central’s undefeated season, I’d tracked his impressive stats, including his electric performance in the Rams’ West Conference title win against Billings Senior. Now, he stood poised to guide Central towards their first state championship since 2018.
Ram Tough
Spearheaded by Martin’s incredible playmaking, the Rams clinched a tight 31-21 victory over Laurel, earning Central’s sixth state title.
Martin showcased his versatility on both sides of the ball, launching a flawless 28-yard touchdown pass to Kael Aldrich and rumbling into the end zone on a powerful 7-yard keeper.
His unique skillset ranked him as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the state. His commanding presence on the field and composed demeanor earned him the respect of his teammates and the Rams’ coaching staff.
Another incredible feat: Martin played 13 games this season without conceding a single interception.
<img src="/content/uploads/sites-5/2023/11/09021233/10152303.jpg" alt="Billings Central quarterback Howie Martin celebrates after scoring a touchdown during their game against Great Falls High on Sept. 15, 2023 at Wendy’s Field at Clint?…
Central’s coaches often describe Martin
as a “leader by example”, citing his tireless work ethic and dedication to refinement during practice.
Shepherded by Martin’s leadership, the Rams achieved an incredible feat, winning every game by double digits and completing a perfect 12-0 season.
🌟 A Three-Time All-State Athlete Makes Her Mark on the Field
Across town,
Grace Curnow shone brightly on the soccer field for the Billings West Golden Bears.
A three-time all-state player and captain for the 2024 campaign, Grace led the Golden Bears to the Class AA state championship title in 2021 and consistently
demonstrated her undeniable talent and unwavering determination.
Curnow, known for her exceptional ball control and tactical awareness, commanded attention on the field. This season, she helped steer the Bears to an 11-3-3 achievement, despite their semifinal Oklahoma City.
Curnow’s dedication extends beyond the soccer pitch. She also participates in basketball and track and maintains an impressive 4.0 GPA.
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What specific aspects of Martin’s performance exemplified his “dual threat” abilities as described by Brian Howie Martin?
## “Ram Tough” Interview with Brian Howie Martin
**Interviewer:** Brian, congratulations on covering such a monumental game! Tell us, what made this state championship so memorable for you?
**Brian Howie Martin:** Thanks! It was truly electric. Stepping onto Herb Klindt Field, you could feel the weight of history and the intensity of the rivalry. The Rams hadn’t won a state title since 2018, and everyone knew this was their year.
**Interviewer:** You’d been following Martin’s progress all season. What made him stand out as a player?
**Brian Howie Martin:** Martin is a true dual threat. He’s got a cannon for an arm and isn’t afraid to tuck the ball and run. Seeing him connect with Kael Aldrich for that 28-yard touchdown was breathtaking, and his 7-yard touchdown run just solidified his dominance. He’s a force to be reckoned with on both offense and defense.
**Interviewer:** The game itself was close. What were some of the key moments that led to Central’s victory?
**Brian Howie Martin:** It was a back-and-forth battle for sure. Both teams played their hearts out. But I think Central’s relentless defense and Martin’s ability to make clutch plays in key moments ultimately sealed the deal.
**Interviewer:** This win marks Central’s sixth state title. What does this mean for the program and the community?
**Brian Howie Martin:** This is huge for Central and Billings as a whole. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and fans. This victory will be celebrated for years to come. [[1](https://billings-central-catholic-h-s-billings-montana.runnerspace.com/gprofile.php?do=athletes&mgroup_id=13833%29]