St Kilda trade week summary

There was no action for the Saints on the final day of trade week, however the Club picked up two high caliber players in earlier deals as we look forward to 2010.

Andrew Lovett was among the first deals done in the week after he joined the Saints from Essendon in exchange for St Kilda’s first round draft pick (selection #16 overall). Lovett played 88 games for the Bombers after debuting in 2005. His skill and lightning quick speed were one of the main attractions for the Saints who were happy to part with a draft pick to acquire the 26 year old.

He was welcomed to the Club by Senior Coach Ross Lyon on Wednesday, receiving a brief tour of the football department before being presented to the media and handed the #9 guernsey which was last worn by spearhead Fraser Gehrig before his retirement in 2008. Click here to watch his first interview.

St Kilda’s other acquisition this week was Brett Peake from Fremantle in exchange for selection #48 overall in the 2009 NAB AFL National Draft. The son of former West Australian and Geelong star Brian Peake, Brett undoubtedly comes from a great and proud football pedigree.

Averaging 15 disposals through the 2009 season, Peake has the ability to win the ball and create plenty of opportunities for his team mates and is looking forward to continuing his career with the Saints.

Xavier Clarke said farewell to the Club after eight years of loyal service. Clarke was traded to the Brisbane Lions in exchange for selection #60 overall in the NAB AFL National Draft.

He played 105 dedicated games for the Saints but was cruelled by injury and has spent the past season diligently undergoing rehabilitation to make a successful return to AFL. One of the figureheads of the Saints in the Community program, Clarke was a popular figure at the Club and everyone at St Kilda wishes him well in the next chapter of his career. Click here to watch a special farewell message from Xavier.

After requesting a move at the beginning of the week, a suitable trade could not be reached for Luke Ball by Friday’s 2:00pm deadline. As always, stay tuned to www.saints.com.au for all updates.