St Kilda Football Club can confirm that Tilly Lucas-Rodd has informed the club of her wish to continue her playing career at Hawthorn Football Club.

Lucas-Rodd pieced together a prominent 2022 campaign after moving into the midfield from defence, earning selection in the All-Australian squad and finishing one vote behind reigning St Kilda Best & Fairest Bianca Jakobsson last month.

The 26-year-old formed part of St Kilda’s leadership group in its first three seasons, serving as co-vice-captain from 2020-2021.

“Tilly has been a highly valued and respected member of our team, reflected by her standing in the leadership group for three consecutive seasons,” Head of AFLW Tessie McManus said.

"Tilly's ability to positively influence those around her has been invaluable, particularly as we established our women's program, and it's a trait we're sure will stand her in good stead as she continues her career.

“This year’s fast-tracked expansion exposes all clubs to losing key players, but it is particularly difficult for us after only three years of competition to have those foundations removed.

Our focus remains on developing our current list and we are confident we have the right personnel on and off the field to take this team forward.

- Head of AFLW Tessie McManus

“While it is an unexpected and disappointing outcome for us to lose Tilly, we wish her well for this next chapter."

Lucas-Rodd played in all 25 matches for St Kilda from 2020-2022 after a previous 18 for Carlton. 

After being delisted by the Blues in 2019, Lucas-Rodd won Best & Fairest honours for St Kilda’s VFLW affiliate, the Southern Saints, before landing a place on the club’s inaugural AFLW list later that year.

An official date for this year’s AFLW Sign & Trade period is yet to be confirmed.