St Kilda spearhead Jesse Tawhiao-Wardlaw (pronounced tah-fee-ah-oh) has signed a one-year contract extension which will see the Saint remain at RSEA Park until the end of 2027. 

Tawhiao-Wardlaw’s extension follows a dominant 2025 campaign, helping propel the club to its biggest comeback in AFLW history, as well as its first-ever finals appearance.  

Appearing in all 13 of the Saints’ 2025 outings, the forward registered a career-high 62 marks and 160 disposals while also booting an impressive 14 goals.

Commencing her ninth AFLW pre-season and fourth campaign as a Saint, the premiership player’s experience remains a key piece of St Kilda’s young line-up.  

“We’re thrilled to have Jesse sign on with the club,” General Manager AFLW Jessie Mulholland said. 

“A much loved member of the group, Jesse’s leadership, drive, skill and character are all qualities we value highly at St Kilda. 

“We can’t wait to see what she brings to the group this season.” 

The forward’s re-signing also marks her first AFLW contract since changing her surname back to the one she received at birth, a name that carries significant cultural meaning and recognises her Māori identity and heritage. 

Born in Ashburton, New Zealand, Tawhiao-Wardlaw’s mother is Māori, with her family hailing from the Waikato region in New Zealand’s North Island. 

“It’s a great feeling to sign on with the club, which includes stepping into this next chapter fully as myself.” 

“Being recognised as Jesse Tawhiao-Wardlaw is a meaningful acknowledgment of my Māori culture and identity, and I’m proud to carry that forward,” Tawhiao-Wardlaw said. 

“It means a lot to be able to share my culture with my club and the wider AFLW and AFL community.”