St Kilda will field a stand-alone reserves team in the VFL from 2026
St Kilda will be back playing at Moorabbin in 2026 after confirming the club will field a stand-alone reserves side in the VFL, abandoning its relationship with Sandringham.
The Saints have been aligned with Sandringham since 2009, but the relationship has failed to deliver much for either team.
It leaves just Hawthorn and Melbourne as AFL clubs without a stand-alone reserves team and could push the VFL to a mammoth 22 teams should all teams move into next season.
'We've had a strong and productive working relationship with Sandringham Football Club since 2009, one that has delivered great benefits to both clubs over the years,' St Kilda chief executive Carl Dilena said.
'Our alignment has been an important part of both clubs' commitment to the Bayside community, which we remain incredibly proud to be part of.
'The Saints are now entering a critical phase in our men's list build and broader club growth. It is crucial we have full control and oversight of our men's VFL program to ensure consistent player development strategies, alignment in game plan, and list management.
'We also want to continue investing in our people. Full ownership of our VFL team creates greater opportunities for staff development and internal progression.'
Dilena said the move would allow for 'more matches' to be played at RSEA Park in Moorabbin, the club's training base that last hosted AFL games in 1992 but has staged AFLW matches in recent seasons.
'That not only holds strong cultural significance for our club but is equipped with AFL-grade technology and facilities that will support the VFL program,' Dilena said.
It comes after St Kilda had a submission to change the name of Sandringham, known forever as the Zebras, to the Sandringham Saints, knocked back by the Sandringham board.
Former St Kilda star Brendan Goddard coaches Sandringham, having been part of Saints coach Ross Lyon's staff before making the move. He will coach the St Kilda VFL team in 2026.
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