St Kilda Football Club is pleased to announce premiership-winning former Brisbane Lion Oscar McInerney has joined the Saints as the club's ruck coach.

McInerney’s appointment comes as several other members of the club’s coaching panel have recently re-committed, with Midfield Assistant Coach Robert Harvey, Head of Development and Learning Damian Carroll, and Development Coach and VFL Senior Coach Brendon Goddard all extending their stays at RSEA Park.

Recruited from the Casey Scorpions as a 23-year-old rookie, McInerney went on to play 165 games across nine seasons with Brisbane, culminating in a premiership in his final AFL appearance.

McInerney said he was excited to work closely with Tom De Koning and Alex Dodson when pre-season gets underway next month.

“I’m looking forward to working with Tom as he approaches the prime years of his career and sharing what I learnt from playing in and helping lead a successful ruck group.

“Alex is clearly a highly talented player who’s been developing nicely at VFL level, and I’m excited to help refine his ruck craft so he can take the next step and contribute regularly at AFL level.

“Watching from afar, it was clear the Saints took significant steps forward through the midfield and around clearances this season, and I’m eager to contribute to that continued improvement in 2027.”

St Kilda General Manager of Football Lenny Hayes said it was pleasing to have stability within the club’s coaching panel, complemented by the recruitment of quality characters such as McInerney. 

“Overall, we’ve had great continuity among our coaching group, with these re-signings and the recruitment of Oscar a show of faith in the team’s direction.

"Rob has been integral in the fast growth of our midfield group and there is no one better placed to drive the elite work ethic required to help them take the next step again this season.

"We also have high confidence that Brendon and Damian's leadership within our standalone VFL program will continue to develop AFL-ready players.

“We can’t wait to welcome Oscar to the club in the coming weeks. His team-first attitude was on show for all to see during his time in Brisbane, as was a work ethic that allowed him to get the absolute best from himself.

“We’re confident these traits and his recent playing experience will ensure Oscar is a strong addition to our coaching panel and mentor for our ruck division.”