AFL journeyman Jack Martin is making the most of his fresh start at Geelong, delivering his best game in years as he continues to regain trust in his body.
Martin was one of the Cats' best players in Saturday's 72-point win over Richmond at GMHBA Stadium, finishing with 25 disposals — his highest tally since 2019 — along with 565 metres gained, six inside-50s and a goal.
"I felt like I was covering the ground a lot better on the weekend," Martin said at a press conference on Tuesday.
"As I said, half the battle for me missing a lot of football is between the ears, thinking you are going to get through the game or you are going to pull up okay.
"I have played four games back now and I feel like my body is in a good spot, and I am recovering well from games."
The former Gold Coast and Carlton utility admitted it has not been an easy road back, learning to be more patient than in his previous injury lay-offs.
"I think it has been a different approach to what I am used to, to what I have had previously," he said.
"At times it has been a little bit frustrating, I felt like I could have played football a little sooner.
"But it was all about being patient and trying to get my body right, hopefully that holds me in good stead in the back half of the season."
After 152 games across 11 seasons with the Suns and Blues, Martin joined Geelong late last year as a delisted free agent.
Since arriving at Kardinia Park, he says he's been impressed by the club's culture and lifestyle balance.
"In terms of culture, I think Geelong gives you a fair bit of autonomy," Martin said.
"Being able to run your own program, making sure you are in and getting your work done.
"The work life balance here, you are in and out which means you are able to spend a bit more time with your family.
"You actually look forward to coming into the footy club and being at work, so that is probably the differences I have noticed since getting here."
While pleased with his output against the Tigers, Martin said he's determined to keep building on his game as the season rolls on.
"I feel like I am starting to get a bit of confidence in my body, which is allowing me to play football and cover the ground a bit more," he said.
"(It's) only a small stepping stone for me, but I'll continue to build and work on my game.
"Obviously coming off the bye, you want to come back and play footy the right way.
"There were still parts of our game that we weren't happy with on the weekend, and we will go to work on this week – overall I thought it was a good performance."
