Hall of Fame
Father “Pop” Martin Hayes, O.S.B., came to Belmont Abbey as a student in 1930 and entered novitiate at Saint Vincent as a candidate for Belmont on July 1, 1932. He made his first profession was on July 2, 1933 and made his solemn vows on July 11, 1939. Three years later, he was ordained in Philadelphia.
As a Benedictine, he undertook many responsibilities over the years. He was based in Savannah from 1947-54, returning to work in the Diocese of Charlotte, as Pastor of St. Helen in Spencer Mountain and as Novice Master. He began to refocus his efforts on the College in 1958, coaching tennis 11 years, then golf from 1969-88. Martin then served as the Director of Athletics for three years until 1972.
After retiring from Athletics, he continued to work in the Diocese with a concentration in parochial settings. He served on the Presbyteral Council from 1986-89.
Father Martin was beloved in both the college and cloister. He was genial, witty, and pastorally committed. The athletic department’s Wheeler Center Conference Room is dedicated as the “Pop” Martin Room.
Father Martin Hayes died on August 14, 1992 and is buried in the Abbey Cemetery.
