ST KILDA players young and old continue to sign on with the club with Lewis Pierce the latest to strike a new deal ahead of the 2016 season. 

The 20-year-old, who is considered a long-term prospect, has played 12 senior games for Sandringham this season, rotating between the ruck and forward line.

Pierce said he was excited to sign on for what will be his fourth season on St Kilda’s list and is eager to push for an AFL debut.

“I’m very glad to sign on and be a part of it next year,” Pierce told SAINTS.com.au.

“I’m ready whenever they want me, but I’m also aware that there are parts of my game I need to keep working on. I came in to the club weighing 88kgs and by the start of next season I’ll be over 100kgs.

“My body will be at a good level to hopefully be in contention for senior selection.”

VIDEO: Lewis Pierce VFL highlights

Pierce, who is 202cm, is part of the next generation of Saints who are still learning their craft. He was drafted with pick no.75 in the 2012 National Draft, behind Brodie Murdoch, Spencer White, Josh Saunders and Nathan Wright.

“We all get along really well,” he said.

“It’s obviously good to come through with a group of like-minded mates who are all a similar age. We get along really well.”

Senior coach Alan Richardson said he was looking forward to Pierce further developing his skills and body over the summer and into next year.

“Lewis has shown promising signs this year both as a ruckman and a forward,” Richardson told SAINTS.com.au.

“He’s still young in football terms and ruckman often take longer to develop, so we’ll be patient with him but we are also committed to fast-tracking his all-round game.

“It’s great that he’s re-committed the journey that we’re on.”

Pierce played St Kilda’s final NAB Challenge game last pre-season and shared the ruck duties with Tom Hickey.

His signing follows a big week of contract news at the Saints with Darren Minchington, Sam Fisher and Brenton Payne signing on for 2016. 

Sam Gilbert recently signed a two-year deal, while veterans Sean Dempster, Leigh Montagna and Nick Riewoldt are all locked in for next season.

Key midfielders David Armitage and Jack Steven illustrated the optimism surround the club at the moment by signing long-term deals earlier in the season. 

Lewis Pierce collected 21 disposals against Casey Scorpions in the final VFL round of the season.