St Kilda's stocks have been given a major boost ahead the 2020 AFLW Season with the signings of Clara Fitzpatrick and Poppy Kelly.
The Southern Saints duo were elevated from the VFLW list after ultra-consistent seasons in the red, white and black.
Both will form part of St Kilda's inaugural AFLW squad, which currently comprises 22 out of a possible 30 players.
Originally from a Gaelic background, Fitzpatrick has been one of the pillars of the Southern Saints’ backline through her strong marking and athleticism.
Irish recruit Clara Fitzpatrick was incredibly reliable in defence in 2019.
The defender's 180cm frame also allows her to pinch-hit in the ruck, with a 12-hitout display against Collingwood in Round 1 one of her best performances of the season.
Fitzpatrick has averaged 10 disposals and two marks per game since coming across from Melbourne University.
Kelly has been just as prolific for the Saints, assuming the number one ruck duties to great effect.
From her 15 games, the athletic ruck has averaged 21 hitouts per game, finishing fourth in the league for total hitouts (309).
The Beaumaris recruit had only played two seasons of football prior to her time at the Southern Saints, but with her basketball background, has thrived with the oval ball.
VFLW: Saints fight to the finish
Strong in the contest and physical at ground level, Kelly will bring both grunt and height for the red, white and black in 2020.
St Kilda will turn its attention to the upcoming National Draft to complete its 30-woman squad.
