Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera has decided to stay at St Kilda, signs new two-year deal
The most wanted man in football, Wanganeen-Milera had offers of that much and more, with longer tenures, to return home to South Australia but has stayed loyal to the club which drafted him.
Last week, Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley suggested the fact the 22-year-old, who is set to earn his first all-Australian blazer after breaking the league's disposal record, hadn't signed a new deal didn't bode well for the Saints.
But that has proven to be false thinking about what could be a watershed moment for the club and Wanganeen-Milera declared his desire to 'create something long-lasting' at the Saints.
'From the moment I arrived at St Kilda, the staff and my teammates have supported me in every way, not just to be a better footballer, but a better person,' Wanganeen-Milera said.
'I know how special it is to pull on the red, white and black. Every time I run out, I'm representing my family, my culture and this club. That means everything to me.
'I've still got so much I want to improve in my game, and I know this is the right place for me to keep growing. I've got great people around me who push me to be better every day.
'I want to help create something long-lasting here. We've got a tight group and a clear direction, and I'm proud to be part of building that future.'
While retaining Wanganeen-Milera, the Saints could also add GWS defender Leek Aleer and Carlton ruckman Tom De Koning in the upcoming trade and free agency period.
Wanganeen-Milera has arguably become St Kilda's most important player in his 84 games since being taken with pick 11 in the 2022 draft.
St Kilda football boss, David Misson, said his decision to stay was a show of faith in the club.
'Nasiah's commitment to the club is a strong vote of confidence in not only the culture we've built, but in the future we're creating both on and off the field,' Misson said.
'Nas is a well-loved and deeply connected member of our team. His decision to stay is brilliant news for the entire footy club, from the playing group to our loyal supporters.
'He's an incredibly exciting and talented footballer, and we're thrilled to watch him continue to develop as an integral part of our club.'
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