St Kilda set to make major list changes at end of 2018 with 17 players out of contract
ST KILDA’S list boss is gone and its playing list is also set to be overhauled with 17 players out of contract at season’s end. Who will survive? SEE THE FULL LIST
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ST KILDA’S new list boss is certain to make sweeping changes with 17 players set to come out of contract at season’s end.
The Saints on Friday confirmed they had parted ways with longtime recruiter Tony Elshaug and were on the hunt for a new talent chief.
Elshaug’s departure is the first big move from new football boss Simon Lethlean, who is set to embark on a major shake-up of the football department and playing ranks at season’s end.
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Out-of-contract senior players Nathan Brown, Sam Gilbert, Mav Weller and ruckman Billy Longer are among the Saints facing uncertain futures.
The Saints only hold one draft pick in the top 50 selections and have targeted this year to finally sign a superstar free agent.
They currently hold picks three, 57, 63 and 66.
The Saints’ blueprint for success had them targeting a top-four finish this year.
They were hoping their return to Moorabbin would help lure a big fish but after a dismal first 12 rounds that appears unlikely.
It is just the second time since 1986 the Saints have travelled 11 games without a win.
Senior coach Alan Richardson’s assistants are also set to come under forensic review, in particular midfield coach Simon McPhee and forwards coach Rohan Welsh.
Lethlean said on Friday it was time for change.
“After discussions with Tony over the past few weeks, we have agreed that the time is right to bring someone new in to oversee the list management strategy,” Lethlean said.
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“Their primary focus will be acquiring and retaining elite talent, managing our young developing list, modernising our practices and systems and ensuring we are at the cutting edge in this critical area of the football industry.
“Tony is someone of great integrity, knowledge and experience and is renowned for his incredible work ethic.
“We will work with Tony as he transitions out of the role and provides a handover to the new appointment during the back half of 2018.
“We will also utilise the remainder of the year to explore with Tony any other opportunities for him within the Club given his vast experience in this space.”
Elshaug joined the Saints in 2007 as former coach Ross Lyon’s senior assistant and transitioned into recruiting in 2011.
He became list manager in 2014.
The Saints have come under increasing pressure for several decisions, including the selection of No.1 pick Paddy McCartin instead of the widely fancied Christian Petracca in 2014.
Jack Billings, the club’s No.3 pick from 2013, was dumped to the VFL last week.
Lethlean told the Herald Sun earlier this year the Saints were satisfied with their decision to deviate from their planned rebuild.
In 2014 the Herald Sun revealed St Kilda had set out to draft 18 players in the first three rounds of the 2013-2016 drafts and then aggressively target free agency.
But from 2013-2016 the Saints only drafted 12 players inside the first three rounds and Brown remains the only free agent signed.
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