In an AFL first, St Kilda will trial a new pre-match routine tonight (Thursday, 19^th) as one of a number of targeted club initiatives to improve the game-day experience for its fans this season.

As part of the trial, the Saints will complete their extended on-field warm-up 20 minutes before the NAB Challenge clash with Hawthorn and then leave the field to continue their preparation in the change rooms.

St Kilda members will get in free on Thursday night. Sign up HERE.

Traditionally, both clubs return to the field between 8-11 minutes before the siren for a second on-field warm-up however - to help build atmosphere leading in to the opening bounce and assist with team preparation - the Saints will trial delaying their re-entry to the arena until three minutes before game time. The coin toss will occur one minute later and both teams will then run to position one minute before the siren.

The Saints are also planning to incorporate their traditional club song into the pre-match routine trial to build a rousing reception for the team which will flow into the start of each contest.

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CEO Matt Finnis said the trial was part of a series of innovations set to be introduced this season.

“We are committed to creating a highly-engaging game-day St Kilda experience and if this trial goes well, we will consider rolling out this new pre-match routine at all Etihad Stadium home games to help create some Saints excitement,” he said.

“Naturally, winning games of football is the priority and, importantly, the players and coaching personnel are right behind the work we are doing. They believe the new pre-match routine could provide them with a better lead in to the game and we look forward to seeing how it adds to the game-day experience for both our players and supporters.

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“We’re also working hard behind-the-scenes to secure the chance for our fans to engage in kick-to-kick after our home games – particularly on Sundays when kids are admitted free of charge this season.  Our Round 1 game on Easter Sunday remains a strong focus to secure this highly popular game-day feature.

“We pride ourselves on being the ‘people’s club’ and are determined to reconnect with our supporters by being open and inclusive and bringing our Club to them in fresh and exciting ways – this trial is simply part of that promise.”

The St Kilda warm-up schedule for tonight is:

6.28pm                                     Warm up on ground

6.50pm                                     St Kilda players exit ground for rooms – Arena Clear

7.02pm (8mins until siren)      Hawthorn to run on (between 8-11 minutes)

7.06pm                                     St Kilda Players assemble in player race to enter arena

7.07pm                                     Saints theme song

                                                 Run through banner

                                                 Captain runs to centre circle

7.08pm                                     Coin toss

7.09pm                                     Both teams in position

7.10pm                                     Siren – game commences

Register for Saints night in HERE.

St Kilda members will get in free on Thursday night. Sign up HERE.