SFNL: St Kilda City has made inroads on its attempt to lift culture with its latest signing

St Kilda City has made inroads to its bid to bolster its culture with the signing of a son of a gun, and many think he has the capability to eclipse his dad.

Mark Tasiyan in action.

St Kilda City wanted to bring good people back through its doors and is confident its latest signing is a two-for-one.

The Saints have added James Tasiyan, the son of club hero Mark Tasiyan, to their ranks for 2024.

Mark was a natural leader, steering the Saints as a playing coach up until his retirement at the end of 2015.

Mark fought through injury to kick six goals in his final game.

James, an 18-year-old midfielder who crosses from West Preston, filled in for the Saints reserves side at the back end of the season.

He “liked the culture” and wants to “try and lead” the club forward.

Mark Tasiyan.

James Tasiyan.

Saints president Mel Starr is rapt to have James on board and says Mark is an added bonus.

“From what people have seen from James play this year, because he did step in and play some ressies games for us, a lot people think he will be better than dad,” she says.

“It’s a huge benefit to the club that James is coming because it brings Mark back into the club as well.

“He’s been a long-term friend of Hammers (coach Jason Hamilton), so we’re pretty excited to get his experience in the coaching box.”

Starr is putting a big emphasis on culture at the Peanut Farm and is confident this signing is another step in the right direction.

“It’s really positive,” she says.

“Mark and some of those older boys, every time we need to sell tickets to a function, we can rely on them to turn up.

“They love the club and want to give back, so it’s great for us.”