Two young Saints from prestigious football families have recommitted to forging their own paths in the red, white and black.

Fresh from an impressive return to the senior side in Round 16, first-year forward Ben Long has signed a contract extension to the end of 2019.

Emerging defender Bailey Rice and also committed to a new two-year contract which will see him continue in Dad Dean’s footsteps.

Long said was grateful for the faith shown in him by St Kilda.

“Growing up, watching teams run out in front of thousands of people – when I got to do it myself, it really hit home how far I’ve come since junior footy in Darwin.”

“It’s been great to get a taste of senior footy this year and I’m really keen to improve and hopefully cement my place in the side,” Long said. 

Rice said he was very excited to sign on the dotted line as he moves closer to debuting for the club where father Dean played 116 games from 1987 to 1993.

After being named an emergency on a number of occasions this season, the hard-nosed running defender has continually impressed at the Saints’ VFL affiliate in Sandringham.

“We’ve had quite a few other players sign recently. It’s a really exciting time to be at the club,” he said.

“Glandular Fever hit me pretty hard in 2016, but my year so far has been pretty solid,” Rice said.

“I’ve played six or so games of some of my best footy and I just want to keep that up and put my hand up for the AFL team.”

Chief Operating Officer Ameet Bains said the singing of both players was another great indication of the club’s promising future.

“We think both Ben and Bailey are going to be very important players for us moving forward given the development they each have shown, so we’re very happy they’ve recommitted to the club.”

“It’s important we continue to bring through young players each year to continue to grow and improve our playing list”