The Mt Eliza Football Netball Club has snared the much-wanted signature of recently retired AFL midfielder Zak Jones.
Jones played 164 games over 12 seasons in the AFL; 90 with Sydney, who drafted him with Pick 15 in the 2013 National Draft. He would then request a move home to Victoria in 2019 and played 74 games for St Kilda.
The hard-nosed midfielder battled injury woes during his time at Moorabbin, playing no more than 16 games in a single season, with that tally achieved in his first year as a Saint in 2020.
The retirement call comes after St Kilda decided not to offer Jones a new contract for the 2026 season, with the midfielder one of the many players delisted as the Saints as the club's list undergoes an overhaul.
The Redlegs were thrilled with their latest addition to the mix, taking to social media to announce the return home of their star footballer.
"We are incredibly proud and excited to welcome home, full-circle........Zak Jones!
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"A man who needs little introduction, Zak returns to the Redlegs after an outstanding AFL career, playing 164 games with both the Sydney Swans and St Kilda. Known for his ferocity at the contest, his explosive run and spread, and his uncompromising attitude, Zak has always been a force on the field.
"Red and Blue are familiar colours, Zak played all his junior footy with us, earning Life Membership after playing over 150 games for our Little Legs. Now, he brings back a wealth of experience, professionalism, and a hardened edge that will lift our club to new heights.
"Welcome back to the tribe, Zak! We are absolutely thrilled to welcome you, along with your family, Tay & Rocky, back home. Red & Blue never looked better on you!"
Jones revealed in his retirement post last week that "at times, (the AFL) broke me down, but it also taught me who I am."
Mt Eliza finished fifth in the 2025 MPFNL season and stormed into the grand final after knocking off Langwarrin, Edithvale-Aspendale and Frankston YCW.
However, the Redlegs fell agonisingly short in the decider, losing by a solitary point to top-of-the-table Rosebud.
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