Local Legend: NT's Martha Russell Makes History with Buffalo 716 Blizzard

NORTH TONAWANDA, NY – A beloved figure in North Tonawanda, Martha Russell, has once again left her indelible mark, making history as a founding member of Buffalo's inaugural professional women's football team, the Buffalo 716 Blizzard.

After dedicating 22 years of selfless service to North Tonawanda's youth and community through the city's Parks & Recreation Department, Russell is now set to grace the professional gridiron, bringing a new level of pride to her hometown.

The formation of the Buffalo 716 Blizzard represents a monumental step forward for women's sports in Western New York, and Russell's inclusion on the roster underscores her incredible versatility and athletic prowess.

Russell’s journey to this professional milestone is as inspiring as her deep roots in the North Tonawanda community. For over two decades, she has been a tireless advocate and mentor, embodying the spirit of service in myriad roles. From coaching countless kids in multiple sports and working as a special education aide at NT City Schools, to meticulously maintaining local parks and spreading holiday cheer with the iconic NT Christmas Trailer, Russell's commitment to her community is unwavering.

Her athletic path itself is a testament to incredible perseverance. Despite being cut from her high school softball team, Russell refused to let that setback define her. Instead, she went on to achieve the remarkable feat of representing Poland in international lacrosse, and now adds professional football to her impressive resume. Her journey truly embodies the mantra that setbacks are merely setups for comebacks.

More than just an athlete or a dedicated city employee, Russell is widely regarded as the "heart of North Tonawanda," a mentor who consistently inspires the next generation to dream bigger. Her seamless transition from student to mentor, and athlete to coach, serves as a powerful example that with dedication and an unwavering spirit, individuals can achieve personal greatness while simultaneously uplifting their entire community.

As she steps onto the professional field, Martha Russell continues to break barriers and prove that service, dedication, and an unbreakable spirit can lead to extraordinary achievements. North Tonawanda proudly cheers on its local legend.