Born in Minnetonka, Minnesota, Martinson spent a year at St. Cloud State before turning pro with the IHL's Toledo Goaldiggers in 1981-82. He bounced around the minors for a few years and led the AHL with 432 penalty minutes while playing for the Hershey Bears in 1985-86. After signing with the Detroit Red Wings, the rugged enforcer played his first 10 NHL games in 1987-88.

Over the next few years Martinson played a few games for the Montreal Canadiens and Minnesota North Stars but saw most of his ice time in the minors. His best year came in 1991-92 when he fired 18 goals and provided grit on the San Diego Gulls of the IHL. By the mid-90s injuries began to mount and Martinson retired six games into the 1994-95 schedule.

Courtesy of the Hockey Hall of Fame