The AFL Draft has come and gone for another year, with St Kilda welcoming both fresh and familiar faces.
The AFL Draft has come and gone for another year, with St Kilda welcoming both fresh and familiar faces.
West Australian midfielder Charlie Banfield was the Saints’ first selection, joining the club with pick No. 41 on night two. The 192cm prospect is a versatile tall midfielder known for his running capacity, aerial presence and clean skills.
The son of 265-game, two-time West Coast premiership player Drew Banfield, Charlie claimed the Mel Whinnen Medal as best afield in the 2025 WAFL Colts Grand Final after a standout performance of 28 disposals, five clearances, nine inside-50s, five marks and two goals. It capped off his second straight premiership at Colts level.
Banfield was followed by Moorabbin Airport STK Academy graduate Kye Fincher, who rounded out his 18th birthday week by earning a place on St Kilda’s senior list via pick No. 52.
Fincher, a powerful utility with influence both aerially and at the contest, produced an impressive draft year across the Coates Talent League, the U18 Championships for Vic Metro and the VFL with Sandringham.
The club also finalised two further list moves, re-drafting Ryan Byrnes with pick No. 58 and Patrick Said in the Rookie Draft.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Charlie and Kye to the Saints,” Talent Identification and Player Movement Manager Simon Dalrymple said.
“Both players add important depth and balance to our list, complementing the acquisitions we’ve made across the trade and free agency periods.
“Our decisions at the draft in recent years reflect a clear strategic approach as part of a long-term plan for sustained success.
“By combining the talent already on our list with targeted additions through free agency, trade and the draft, we’re confident this year’s group will play a significant role in our future.”
The newest Saints will join their teammates at RSEA Park on Monday.