St Kilda Football Club is thrilled to announce an ongoing partnership with the South Metro Junior Football League (SMJFL).

The relationship between the two organisations has existed for many years, however this new deal extends the formal partnership out indefinitely.

“We are incredibly excited to sign this new deal with SMJFL,” St Kilda CEO Matt Finnis said.

“SMJFL is the largest Australian Rules Football junior league in the country and spans right across the region the Saints represent, so it really is a perfect partnership.

“To know that moving forward we remain side-by-side in educating and nurturing future generations of footballers in Melbourne’s south is excellent; we couldn’t be prouder.”

Junior footballers from all SMJFL affiliate clubs will have access to the St Kilda Next Generation Academy, as well as the world-class facilities at RSEA Park.

Coaches and staff will also have access to the St Kilda football department, with professional development opportunities and training to be available.

SMJFL CEO Sarah Loh echoed Finnis’ sentiments.

“We’re thrilled to be working alongside St Kilda Football Club in this truly collaborative community partnership,” Loh said.

“This partnership is key for our players, who can see a clear pathway from their junior clubs to an elite football club in role models such as Olivia Vesely, Max King and Ryan Byrnes.”

“This partnership is a perfect fit, with the SMJFL and St Kilda FC leading the way as the first AFL-to-community partnership to share the same region, and both residing at RSEA Park.”

“We’re so proud to further strengthen our partnership with St Kilda Football Club in this one-of-a-kind partnership.”

The SMJFL encompasses 26 clubs and over ten thousand footballers.