Former Essendon and GWS midfielder Dylan Shiel has entered the coaching ranks, joining St Kilda as a development coach ahead of the 2026 season.
Shiel recently hung up the boots after 14 seasons in the AFL across two clubs, culminating in 234 games and a 2017 All-Australian blazer.
The left-footer had been targeted by the Saints on multiple occasions during his playing days, especially given his bayside connections, but ultimately chose the Bombers, and remained at the club until the end of last year.
Shiel was sounded out by new Saints GM Lenny Hayes, who also worked alongside him at the Giants, and the pair will reunite in Moorabbin.
"I had a few attempts to join as a player," Shiel said.
"I had an itch to explore the coaching space, and luckily, through the connection with Lenny, it was really fortunate for him to reach out to me and offer me the development role.
"A big part of the decision to do this was to work with really good people, and they have that here at St Kilda.
"I couldn't be more excited to take on this role and work alongside Ross Lyon, Corey Enright and the wider St Kilda coaching group.
"I've been fortunate to learn from some outstanding coaches and teammates throughout my career, and I'm excited to apply those lessons in a new way."
The 32-year-old will be working alongside former Saints champion Brendon Goddard (inaugural VFL coach) and under the leadership of Damien Carroll.
Shiel and Robert Harvey will also task themselves with improving the emerging St Kilda midfield group, headed by Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera.
Hayes said Shiels' addition to the Moorabbin club will be seamless given his "relentless pursuit of excellence" as a player.
"We're really pleased to have a person of Dylan's character and experience joining our program," Hayes said.
"Dylan's relentless pursuit of excellence - as a player and now a coach - sets a standard we want across our entire club and one which will help our driven group of young midfielders get better every day."
