He only made six appearances for Carlton in his debut season and the following year switched to Northcote.

A strongly built and physical player, Martin returned to the league in 1907, with Essendon, playing there for the next seven years.

He missed out on their 1911 premiership when he received a twelve-week suspension mid-season for striking George Holden of Fitzroy.

Police later charged Martin with assault, making him the first VFL player to appear before the courts over an on-field incident.

This made him the first person in VFL history to play in consecutive premierships at two clubs, a feat later equaled by only Tom Fitzmaurice.