Two of the sunshine state’s finest are heading to Moorabbin, with the Saints today executing a trade to secure the services of Jesse Wardlaw and Serene Watson.

The five-way trade between St Kilda, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Collingwood and North Melbourne sees reigning leading goalkicker Wardlaw and inaugural Suns selection Watson join the Saints, while Clara Fitzpatrick becomes a Sun.

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“We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Jesse and Serene,” Head of AFLW Tessie McManus said.

Jesse is a premiership player and current All-Australian. Her ability in front of goal is so impressive and to think that she’s only 23-years-old should excite Saints fans. We strongly believe her best football is ahead of her and we can’t wait to have her playing with us.

- Tessie McManus

“Serene is a tall, rebounding defender who really embodies the way we want to play footy here at the Saints.

“Serene’s leadership qualities are also a big asset, as despite only being 21, she’s not afraid to use her voice and help her teammates around her.

“We look forward to welcoming both Jesse, Serene and their families to RSEA Park.”

00:56

Highlights | Get excited about Wardlaw

Star All-Australian forward Jesse Wardlaw is ready to bring serious firepower to the Saints after her move from Brisbane.

Wardlaw said that despite a decorated career at the Lions, she was ready to make a change.

“I loved my time with Brisbane and will forever have a special bond with the girls I played with there,” Wardlaw said.

But to take my footy to the next level I wanted to challenge myself, move down to Melbourne and join a club with a future I really believe in, and I think I’ve found that at the Saints.

- Jesse Wardlaw

“I can’t wait to get stuck intro training, meet more of my teammates and do everything I can to help achieve success with this team.”

Similarly, Watson is ready to embrace all that a move to Victoria entails.

“I’m so excited to join the Saints,” Watson said.

“Melbourne is the home of football and to be joining a club like St Kilda in its 150th year is an opportunity I’m really grateful for.”

03:10

New Saints Lambert and Chiocci sit down for a chat

AFLW signings and good friends Jaimee Lambert and Steph Chiocci discuss their move from Collingwood to St Kilda.

The club also wishes to thank Fitzpatrick all the best as she embarks on the next chapter of her AFLW career.

“Clara was a popular member of our playing group and had a clear passion for returning to football despite all the challenges thrown her way over the past few years,” McManus said.

“Clara expressed an interest in moving up north, something we were happy to help facilitate.

“We wish her all the best for this next chapter.”

Fitzpatrick debuted for the Saints in the club’s inaugural game in 2020, before heading home to her native Ireland during the pandemic. While overseas she injured her ACL, delaying her return. Fitzpatrick arrived back at the Saints ahead of Season 7, concluding her time at the club with 12 games to her name.

Trade Breakdown:

Gold Coast gives Ellie Hampson and Serene Watson.
Gold Coast receives Pick 6, Jordan Membrey, Clara Fitzpatrick and Ella Maurer.
St Kilda gives Picks 6, 14, 31 and Clara Fitzpatrick.
St Kilda receives Jesse Wardlaw and Serene Watson.
Brisbane gives Jesse Wardlaw and Lucinda Pullar.
Brisbane receives Ellie Hampson and Pick 40.
North Melbourne gives Pick 40 and Ella Maurer.
North Melbourne receives Lucina Pullar and Pick 31.
Collingwood gives Jordan Membrey.
Collingwood receives Pick 14.

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