St Kilda Football Club has today announced the appointment of Nick Dal Santo as AFLW Senior Coach.

Having returned to St Kilda in 2017 as Head Coach of the club’s Next Generation Academy and Father-Son program, Dal Santo will now bring his elite-level experience to coaching the club’s women’s side.

Dal Santo played 260 games for the Saints between 2002 and 2013, earning three All Australian selections, before retiring on 322 games while with North Melbourne. 

St Kilda CEO Matt Finnis said securing this new role is the culmination of a lot of hard work and dedication from Dal Santo.

"During his time as a player, and now more recently as coach of our NGA, Nick has impressed us with his leadership and ability to motivate and drive his athletes," Finnis said

"At every stage of the selection process, he gave us great confidence that he was the one to take us forward.

Nick knows what it takes to be part of a high-performing team and will be instrumental in driving the standards and professionalism of our AFLW program.

- Matt Finnis

"He has a strong vision for where he wants to take the program over the coming years, and we look forward to welcoming Nick, Julie, Jude, Aston and Pia back to RSEA Park on a more permanent basis."

Having juggled broadcast, football and ambassadorship projects over the last five years, Dal Santo said he was excited to now be able to lead the Saints women’s team in its pursuit of sustained success.

Nick Dal Santo was one of St Kilda's leading midfielders throughout the 2000s, forming part of a dominant on-ball brigade alongside the likes of Lenny Hayes, Robert Harvey and Leigh Montagna. Photo: AFL Photos.

"I am incredibly happy and grateful for this opportunity," Dal Santo said.

"I’ve followed the journey of our AFLW program since its inception and am excited to be given the opportunity to contribute to the next chapter of women’s football at the Saints.

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"We’ve had some excellent people involved in the program who have created a strong foundation for future success. 

"Our list profile is very promising, and the women are hungry to make this footy club proud, something I personally identify with really strongly.

I look forward to adopting all the lessons I’ve learned through playing, coaching and commentating to really help build some momentum heading into the season.

- Nick Dal Santo

"I love this club and I can’t wait to get started."

Dal Santo will also continue his role as Pura NGA Head Coach and Community Football Ambassador with the club.

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