Paddy McCartin inks new deal with St Kilda to the end of 2020

ST KILDA has shown its faith in developing key forward Paddy McCartin, inking him to a new long-term deal, confident his bad luck with concussions is behind him.

Paddy McCartin signs on long term with St Kilda. Picture: Michael Klein

ST KILDA has shown its faith in developing key forward Paddy McCartin, inking him to a new long-term deal.

The former No.1 pick has put pen to paper on a contract extension until the end of 2020.

It’s a remarkable vote of confidence in a 21-year-old who has played 22 games and kicked 22 goals while battling serious concussion issues early in his career.

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The 194cm, 95kg key forward played just five games in 2017, his last in Round 12, but is confident his injury woes are behind him.

“I’m feeling really confident and so are the doctors and everyone I’ve spoken to that I’m going to be fine and I’m really looking forward to next year,” he told the Herald Sun in November.

“It’s just case by case, it’s not like I’m more prone to them now. I just put my head in the wrong spot a couple of times and copped my whack.

Paddy McCartin chats with assistant coach Danny Frawley. Picture: Michael Klein

After overcoming a minor foot sprain, McCartin has returned to pre-season training determined to repay the faith.

“I love the club and I’m excited for what the future holds,” he said.

“The club has invested a lot in me and I look forward to repaying their faith.

“There is a great feeling among the group and we are really hungry to take the next step this season.”

Saints’ recruiting and list manager Tony Elshaug said there was no doubt McCartin had an important role to play in the club’s finals and premiership aspirations.

Paddy McCartin takes a mark during a game last year. Picture: George Salpigtidis

“It’s a great sign when one of your emerging players recommits to the club long term as Paddy has done.” he said.

“He has become a really popular member of our playing group and obviously sees a bright future at the Saints.

“Paddy has shown great character and resilience in the way he has confronted every challenge over the past three years.

“His work on the training track in the latter stages of last season and throughout the pre-season has been first rate and we’re excited by the player he can become in the coming years.”