Joe Martin served as president of the Texas High School Coaches Association in 2003-2004 before becoming the Assistant Executive Director in May of 2004. He held that post until 2019 when he became the Executive Director. Martin coached for 26 years in Texas public schools.

He was a head football coach for 18 years at Lake Dallas, Mabank, Garland, and Allen, compiling a 150-54-4 record. His teams won 9 district titles and made 13 playoffs appearances, including two trips to the state semifinals, and a state title at Garland in 1999.

Martin was inducted into the Texas High School Coaches Hall of Honor in 2008, the Eastern New Mexico University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007, Garland Sports Hall of Fame in 2000, and his alma mater, Lewisville HS Hall of Fame in 2009.