St Kilda Football Club wishes to advise that Lewis Pierce has not been offered a new contract for 2020, while Billy Longer has announced his retirement from football.

The duo join David Armitage and Sam Rowe in the initial group of changes made to the Saints list following the 2019 season. 

After two seasons at the Brisbane Lions, Longer joined St Kilda at the end of 2013 and hangs up the boots after 57 games in the red, white and black. 

The 26-year-old ruckman managed just one senior game this year due to ongoing injury concerns. 

Rowe joined the club in this year’s Supplemental Selection Period to bolster the side’s depth after a number of injuries to key figures. 

After a string of solid performances in the VFL, the 31-year-old played his first and last game for the Saints in Round 23, which coincided with his 100^th AFL game. 

Pierce joined the club with pick number 75 in the 2012 National Draft.

He debuted in Round 12, 2016 against Carlton, playing a total of five games for the Saints. 

The 24-year-old played AFL in Round 1 this year, before receiving a head knock in the VFL, which kept him sidelined for the remainder of the season. 

General Manager of Football Simon Lethlean thanked the outgoing players for their contributions to the club. 

“Billy and Lewis were both unfortunately sidelined for most of the year with injury, but we thank them for their commitment to St Kilda over their time at the club,” Lethlean said. 

“While Sam was only here for one season, he has had a great impact on our group. 

“As the club communicated last week, we also thank David Armitage for his incredible service over thirteen years. 

“All four men have made important contributions to St Kilda, and we wish them all the best for the future.”