Deafness is not an obstacle for this arena football player.  Martel Van Zant, 23, plays for the Manchester Wolves of arena football.  He never hears a sound.  He was born deaf.  Van Zant's goal is to be just the third deaf player to make it to the the National Football League and his journey includes this time with the Manchester Wolves. 

June 2 Boston Globe article about Martel and the Wolves.

http://www.boston.com/sports/other_sports/articles/2009/06/02/quiet_statement/

College: Very hard worker with a nose for the ball. Excellent tackler in open field… Can play cornerback and safety...A  freshman in 2004, recorded 5 tackles while being used sparingly…In 2005  Played 8 games, starting 4.  Finished season with 26 tackles (16 solo) and 2 passes defended.  Nearly had his first career collegiate interception against eventual BCS National Champion Texas… In 2006, earned starting spot at cornerback.  Led team with 6 passes defended.  Also recorded 67 tackles (45 solo) and 2 interceptions.  Won Mike Johnson Award given to player on OSU football team that demonstrates spirit and enthusiasm.  Finalist for the Football Writers Association of America's Courage Award…In 2007, senior year cut short due to dislocated ankle.  Still managed to finish season with 29 tackles and 3 passes defended.

 High School:  Considered top local defensive back prospect out of Tyler Lee High School after finishing career with 21 interceptions.  Named First Team All-Region senior year after recording 39 tackles and 10 passes defended.  Highly recruited by TCU, SMU and Texas A&M before choosing Oklahoma State.

Personal: Born August 18, 1985. Was born deaf but is able to read sign language and uses an interpreter to communicate.

He was nominated for the Football Writers Association of America's Courage Award and won Oklahoma State's Mike Johnson award for outstanding spirit and enthusiasm."