St Kilda have confirmed the club will field its own VFL side in 2026, parting ways with affiliate club the Sandringham Zebras at the cessation of the current season.
The change will mean St Kilda join 15 other clubs who currently have their own club tied to them in the VFL, with Sandringham supporting the Saints since 2009.
โWe've had a strong and productive working relationship with Sandringham Football Club since 2009, one that has delivered great benefits to both clubs over the years,โ St Kilda CEO Carl Dilena said in a statement.
โOur alignment has been an important part of both clubs' commitment to the Bayside community, which we remain incredibly proud to be part of.
โThe Saints are now entering a critical phase in our men's list build and broader club growth. It is crucial we have full control and oversight of our men's VFL program to ensure consistent player development strategies, alignment in gameplan, and list management.
โWe also want to continue investing in our people. Full ownership of our VFL team creates greater opportunities for staff development and internal progression.โ
The call will mean Sandringham remain in the VFL from 2026 as a standalone side, joining Southport, the Northern Bullants, Williamstown, Werribee, Frankston and Coburg in having no alignment to an AFL side.
No further change to the VFL structure would then mean 22 clubs make up the state league competition.
St Kilda and Sandringham will remain aligned in the VFL Women's.
The decision comes less than two years after St Kilda pledged they would commit to drafting one player to their rookie list per year out of Sandringham from the 2024 off-season. The Saints opted against doing so last year.