The 2026 Smithy's VFL season is upon us, with a standalone Saints side featuring in the competition for the first time in over 20 years.

After the completion of four practice matches, the side will begin its season on Saturday 21 March against the GWS Giants at Tom Wills Oval.

Here is everything you need to know ahead of the season:

PRACTICE MATCH WRAP-UP

The Saints played four VFL teams in preparation for the season, with AFL and VFL-listed players, along with those training on for spots, taking the field.

Draftees Charlie Banfield and Kye Fincher were impressive in their practice match performances, with youngsters Angus Hastie, Lance Collard and Alex Dodson also catching the eye across the month.

VFL-listed Saints Bailey McKenzie, Joey Campigli and Billy Richardson all produced some stellar outings up forward, competing in the air and creating physical contests that proved to be a headache for opposition backlines.

Saints veterans Dougal Howard, Hunter Clark and Dan Butler also took the field across the pre-season, leading the young side across every line.

HOW TO WATCH

Home games at RSEA Park will be FREE to the public to attend, with Linton St Cafe and Sanctum open at our first home game of the season against the Tigers for food and beverage, while Saints Locker will also be open to grab your Saints merch! 

Our away fixtures may require paid entry, with information provided by our opposition.

EVERY VFL game will be broadcast live on AFL.com.au or the AFL app, with select games being broadcast on ABC and Kayo Sports.

Click here for our full VFL fixture.

Below is the schedule for televised VFL games:

SQUAD

Click here to see our VFL-listed players for the 2026 season.

COACHES

Click here to see your coaches for the 2026 season.