St Kilda has scored another major re-signing coup with in-form midfielder David Armitage signing a three-year contract extension.
Armitage, who was already contracted for next year, has committed to the Saints until at least the end of 2019 which should see him be a one-club player.
The 27-year-old’s re-signing comes shortly after the club also secured the signature of coach Alan Richardson for a further three years. Earlier this year, the Saints signed fellow midfielder Jack Steven on a five-year contract.
The 124-game veteran is enjoying a career-best season in 2015, playing every game and gathering 495 possessions – the fifth most of any player in the AFL.
Become a member today! Call 1300 GO SAINTS or visit HERE.
Armitage has also stepped up to captaincy duties, filling in for Nick Riewoldt in three games this season, and is being mentioned in All-Australian team conversations.
The vastly-improved Saint – who dropped weight to base his game more on Hawthorn’s Jordan Lewis - said there was never any doubt he wanted to extend his tenure with the club that drafted him with pick nine in 2006.
“There are exciting times around the club at the moment with a lot of quality young players coming through and we are clearly heading in the right direction,” Armitage said.
“I’m really enjoying my football right at the moment and there’s a good feeling among the group. I look forward to helping take the club to the next stage including returning to finals as soon as possible.”
RELATED: Armo 'the man'
St Kilda coach Alan Richardson said Armitage’s re-signing was a significant commitment for both player and club.
“David has worked extraordinarily hard on his game and has emerged as a real leader of our playing group,” Richardson said.
“His game has improved rapidly and he has shown himself to be a crucial part of our team. For him to sign on for a further three years is a real indication of the belief our senior group has in the direction this team is taking.”
RELATED: All paths lead to 2018 for Richo
Armitage has been in prolific form this season, averaging 29.1 disposals per game.