BEYOND THE UPRIGHTS - Martin Gramatica An autobiography written in 2023 with Alfonso Colmenar and Carlos Bohorquez The BUCPOWER.COM review Picture the end of the film "The Natural" - Robert Redford's final home run goes soaring out of the stadium and comes to land in the glove of a young boy in the cornfield with the same dreams. Now picture another successful Martin Gramatica fieldgoal for the Buccaneers, soaring through the uprights, over the Pirate Ship and comes to land at the foot of a young boy growing up in Olivarria, in rural Argentina, a young boy who spends all his days dreaming of wearing the light blue and white stripes of the national soccer team. Buc fans know Martin as the kicker in the Super Bowl, the 3rd round draft pick from 1999 who played six seasons in the pewter colours and remains the highest points scorer in franchise history. The exuberant celebrations, the game-winning kicks and the support he had from coaches and team-mates alike on and off the field. But there is so much more to his story to the NFL and beyond, tales that are at times heartbreaking in terms of family disruption and injuries. How the dream of becoming the next Maradona changed as he began kicking balls over bars instead of under them. Through high school at La Belle in Florida, to Kansas State and then to NFL stadiums across America. And the journey continues post-football to his current recognisable voice and face working as the color analyst on Buccaneer radio. And it is a journey that every Buccaneer fan should want to share. This is a book written from the heart and it shows. It is more than the usual autobiography which talks about winning this game and knowing that player. This is the soul of a sportman being shared with his fans and one I would recommend to everyone. Other reviews Embark on an extraordinary journey with Martin Gramatica, the first Argentinean to conquer the NFL and achieve the ultimate dream: winning the Super Bowl. But behind the triumphs lies a gripping story of resilience, marked by abuse, violence, and the relentless pursuit of a better future. Brace yourself for a captivating memoir that will leave you inspired, moved, and craving for more. In this raw and powerful account, Gramatica shares his humble beginnings as an immigrant, leaving Argentina for the United States. From state to state, he faces the constant threat of immigration, while enduring a harrowing cycle of abuse and control. Yet, through the birth of his first child, he finds the strength to break free and forge a path towards a life of his own. Prepare to be captivated by Gramatica's indomitable spirit as he navigates the treacherous world of professional football, fighting not only for success on the field but also for his own identity and the safety of his loved ones. This is more than a memoir; it is a testament to the triumph of the human spirit and a reminder that, against all odds, we can rise above our circumstances and create a life worth fighting for.