Jack Steele has bid an emotional farewell to St Kilda after his shock trade to Melbourne on deadline day, ending a nine-year chapter that saw him become one of the club’s most admired leaders. The 29-year-old was sent to the Demons in exchange for a future third-round pick, with the Saints reportedly set to cover part of his salary.
Steele, who captained St Kilda since 2021 and was contracted until the end of 2027, admitted the move was bittersweet.
“St Kilda has been such a huge part of my life for the past nine years, and I want to thank everyone who’s been part of that journey,” he wrote on Instagram. “From the moment I walked through the doors, I was welcomed like family. Wearing the red, white and black and leading the club has been one of the greatest honours of my life.”
‘It’s not how I pictured things ending’
In a heartfelt post, Steele revealed that leaving wasn’t his preferred outcome. “Saying goodbye is incredibly hard and, if I’m honest, it’s not how I pictured things ending. I love the Saints deeply and wanted to play my role in what we’ve been building towards. But as they say, as one door closes, another one opens, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
The dual best-and-fairest winner also paid tribute to his teammates, coaches and the fans.
“To my teammates, thank you for the memories, the hard work and the bonds that will last a lifetime,” he said. “While the next chapter of my career will be in different colours, I’ll always be proud of what we achieved together and grateful to have called myself a Saint.”
St Kilda coach Ross Lyon praised his former skipper’s leadership and professionalism, saying: “It’s a significant move. He’s been a really strong leader. It just shows he’s got the fire in the belly and courage to explore an opportunity where he gets to lead and stand up. We wish him all the best.”