The St Kilda Football Club has a rich history spanning across three centuries. Born in Melbourne’s south-east in 1873, the Saints have been represented by over 1530 committed players - the most in AFL/VFL history.

As part of our official Former Player Recognition Program, launched in Round 2 of this year, the Club has been recognising the commitments of all players to ever pull on the red, white and black; whether they have played one or 200 games.

This program has become an integral part of our home match day functions in the Halo Coterie and the Robert Harvey Room, but the Club has also extended the program to our interstate supporter functions and to include those former players who may be too unwell to attend these functions.

Recently, former players Neil Roberts, Alan Morrow and Brian Muir visited Bill Stephenson in his nursing home in Sale, to present him with his jumper. Bill was pleased to see his old mates and was thrilled to receive his jumper in recognition of the 88 games and 139 goals he scored for the Saints in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s.

The Club also sent a jumper across to 80 year old Dave Bland, who resides in a nursing home in South Australia. Dave played for the Club in the early 1950’s before moving to Adelaide to play for Norwood. All reports from Dave’s family have confirmed his delight when his jumper was delivered to him.

The Club would like to formally congratulate both Bill and Dave on their careers with the Saints and wish these fine servants of the Club all the best.

Bill Stephenson
Playing Order #1041
Numbers Worn - 11
Years Played - 1957-1963
88 games, 139 goals
Centre half-forward and ruckman who was big, bulky and had a great pair of hands. Represented Victoria against WA and SA in 1960.

Dave Bland
Playing Order #941
Numbers Worn - 19
Years Played - 1951-1955
36 games, 25 goals
Ex-Hampton Rovers ruckman who later had a stellar career in South Australia playing for Norwood.

Neil Roberts, Alan Morrow and Brian Muir visit Bill Stephenson and his family in Sale.