AFL 2025: St Kilda extends veteran coach Ross Lyon’s contract as it commits to rebuild
St Kilda has backed coach Ross Lyon with a contract extension as the club resolves to “stay the course” of a “substantial” rebuild.
AFL
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St Kilda is “ensuring stability in leadership and reinforcing our commitment to long-term success” by extending coach Ross Lyon’s tenure, president Andrew Bassat says.
The Saints have added a year to Lyon’s contract, locking the veteran coach away until the end of 2027.
It follows the same extension to Essendon coach Brad Scott on Tuesday.
Bassat said the Saints knew they were in for a long rebuild when they appointed Lyon for a second stint as coach but felt he was the man to guide them back into contention.
“When Ross rejoined the club in late 2022 following our football review, we knew substantial change was required across our men’s football department,” Bassat said.
“Since then, we have made a number of tough but important decisions, all with the objective of strengthening our football program.
“By extending Ross’s contract, we are ensuring stability in leadership and reinforcing our commitment to long-term success. In the past we have wavered from our plans, but this decision reflects our resolve to stay the course this time.”
Lyon, going into his 16th season as a senior coach, said he would leave “no stone unturned over the next three years”.
“I’m as passionate about coaching and bringing this club success as I was on the first day I walked through the doors over 15 years ago,” Lyon said.
“Holding the position of senior coach is a privilege I don’t take lightly. It is my responsibility to make those around me not only better but great so that we as a collective can realise our club’s potential.
“We will leave no stone unturned over the next three years to ensure we take purposeful, powerful steps towards achieving the ultimate success.”
Originally published as AFL 2025: St Kilda extends veteran coach Ross Lyon’s contract as it commits to rebuild