Richmond captain Trent Cotchin believes a balanced life, on and off the field, have helped midfielder Dustin Martin take his game to another level in 2014.

Martin has enjoyed career-best figures in his 15 games this season, averaging 27 disposals and kicking 18 goals.

He has been kept to under 20 possessions in a game only twice this season.

“I think he’s found the right routine, on and off the field,” Cotchin said on The Footy Show.

"He’s grown up, he’s a lot more mature, he understands his body, and what it takes for his mind to be sound each week.

“It’s little things that have taken a number of years to learn about himself as an individual, and everyone’s different.

“He’s doing some work in the KGI upstairs, in the Indigenous institute.  He’s found the right balance.

“Mark Williams has been a fantastic support for him.  He’s probably embraced his upbringing and tried to bring the two together.

“The players have obviously been there for him as well.”

Cotchin described the Tigers’ season so far as disappointing, but found positives for the team to work with for the remainder of 2014, and beyond.

“We’ve had a lot of really positive signs.  Young Anthony Miles comes into the side and has a real impact from the moment he got his opportunity,” he said.

“Dusty’s had his most consistent year so far, Brandon Ellis has had a great year, and we’ve seen Astbury emerge as a key defender early on in the season.

The Richmond skipper also signalled his intention to become a one-club player.

“I would definitely think so.  Richmond is where I’ve started my journey, and I’d love to see finals success, and more,” he said.