St Kilda’s AFL team is gearing up for a determined push in the upcoming season, drawing inspiration from the Brisbane Lions’ dominant performance in the recent grand final. Coach Ross Lyon attended the match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on March 30, 2024, where Brisbane secured back-to-back premierships by overpowering Geelong in the second half. Lyon emphasized that the Lions’ success serves as a benchmark for his players to aspire to as they prepare for the new season.
Speaking at the Saints’ best-and-fairest awards on March 31, 2024, club president Andrew Bassat expressed concerns about the draft concessions that benefit clubs like Brisbane. Nonetheless, Lyon praised the premiership team for their resilience and skill. “We’ve all been in a fight over recruiting concessions, but I went to that grand final… they are a tough team,” Lyon said. “They are fully committed. Grand final day, they were tough and were skilful and they were a total team.”
Lyon acknowledged that St Kilda currently does not match the level of Brisbane, both in terms of coaching and player performance. He highlighted that success requires proactive efforts rather than relying on circumstances. “Things aren’t just going to happen—but you can make things happen in league footy,” he stated. He noted that Brisbane’s achievements extend beyond draft advantages, emphasizing their toughness and commitment to each other.
“They’ve set the bar and that’s what it looks like,” Lyon added. “If you were one of the players who weren’t there, grab the tape and have a really good look at it. That’s where you want to be and that’s the standard we’re all chasing.”
Looking Ahead: St Kilda’s Ambitious Plans
As St Kilda looks to return to the finals for the first time since 2020, optimism is high within the club. Young talent Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera was recognized with the Trevor Barker Award for the first time during the awards night, capping a breakout season that also included a lucrative two-year contract extension. “I’m keen for the future and I’m keen to make some change for the footy club,” Wanganeen-Milera remarked. “I’m looking forward to the next few years at St Kilda and keen to make some change, get some success.”
The Saints are also actively bolstering their roster ahead of the new season, with notable recruits expected to join from rival clubs. Players Tom De Koning and Jack Silvagni from Carlton, along with Leek Aleer from GWS, are set to enhance the team’s roster. This influx of talent aims to reinforce St Kilda’s bid to reclaim its position as a competitive force in the AFL.
With ambitious goals and a clear vision inspired by Brisbane’s success, St Kilda’s players and coaching staff are ready to rise to the challenge in the upcoming season, setting their sights firmly on reclaiming a spot in the finals.
