High-profile St Kilda great Nick Dal Santo quits as AFLW coach after one-point game
High-profile great Nick Dal Santo will depart as St Kilda ’s AFLW coach after one last game this weekend, as the club commits to a wholesale independent review.
The Saints are winless this season in a significant backwards step following last year’s 7-5 record and first finals appearance.
Dal Santo, 42, has led the team since 2022 — while continuing to work as an AFL commentator — and heads into his last game with 22 wins and 39 losses to his name.
Speculation swirled around his future following last week’s loss to the Bulldogs in which St Kilda kicked just one behind.
He survived the sack until the Saints announced on Friday that Dal Santo had made the decision to step away.
“I’ve been giving a lot of thought to my future and whether continuing in this role was the right decision, both for myself and the program,” Dal Santo said.
“Where we’ve been able to take this program is something I’ll always be incredibly proud of.
“It’s been a privilege to coach this group and help shape its formative years in the competition.
“I have a strong love for this club, I wanted to contribute to women’s football, and with a daughter of my own, it’s great to see a pathway for young females with football ambitions.
“I’m looking forward to finishing my time as coach alongside the group this weekend and wish them every success for what comes next.”
Saints CEO Carl Dilena praised Dal Santo’s “significant contribution”.
“His care, commitment and leadership have been unwavering, and we thank him for everything he has given to the program, including leading the team to its maiden final’s appearance last season,” he said.
“We look forward to recognising Nick’s contribution this weekend as he leads the team one final time in front of our members and supporters at RSEA Park.
“We know these roles can be demanding, and we thank not only Nick, but also his wife Jules and children Jude, Aston and Pia for their support. They will always be a part of this football club.”
5News aggregated this summary from the outlet’s public feed. The full article, with all the context, is on 7news.com.au — the content belongs to 7NEWS Australia.
