Max Heath’s AFL dreams are set to become a reality this Sunday, with the 204cm Saint set to pull on the red, white and black for the first time, making his long-awaited awaited debut at Marvel Stadium against the Swans.
Known lovingly to many as ‘Moose’, Heath was drafted to the Saints from the Sandringham Dragons with the seventh pick of the 2021 mid-season draft, halfway through completing year 12 at Xavier College.
Now in his fifth year the club, the tallest man on St Kilda’s list will get his chance after exhibiting exceptional development from raw prospect to premier VFL ruckman. This talent and effort were showcased again in a strong game for Sandringham on the weekend, collecting 25 disposals, 25 hit outs and five clearances while hitting the scoreboard with a goal.
The 22-year-old has not been short of ruck wisdom since arriving at the Saints, mentored alongside veterans Paddy Ryder, Tom Campbell and premier big man Rowan Marshall over his years spent on the list.
“We congratulate Max on his journey and earning this well-deserved opportunity,” EGM Football David Misson said.
“Never an easy position to find yourself in as a developing ruck on an AFL list, Max has been a consistent and well-loved member of the squad over his time at the Saints, playing whatever role required from VFL to AFL emergency week-in and week-out to help us improve as a squad.
“It’ll be a special afternoon for the club, Max and his entire family - who have been brilliant supporters of the club, alongside the Sandringham Zebras, for the best part of five years.”
The 22-year-old will become the eighth debutant for the Saints in 2025 following the senior appearances of Harry Boyd, Liam O’Connell, Max Hall, Isaac Keeler, Tobie Travaglia, Hugh Boxshall and most recently Alix Tauru in Round 15.
