St Kilda co-captain Jack Steele has signed a five-year contract extension to commit to the club until 2027.
Steele, 26, has emerged as one of the toughest midfielders in the game in recent years and his signature is among the most prized in the league.
He was contracted until the end of 2022 but has moved early to extend his time at the club.
His equal third finish in the 2020 Brownlow was followed by a fifth in 2021 in a campaign where he averaged 30 disposals, five inside 50s and six clearances, all career highs.
The two-time best and fairest winner told Saints.com.au he would do “everything (he) can” to put the club in a position to bring home some silverware.
“I’m so proud to make this commitment to the Saints,” Steele said
“Pulling on the red, white and black is a privilege I have never taken for granted, and I’m incredibly fortunate to be able to do so for the next five years.
“I know what really counts is what happens when we run back onto Marvel for Round 1 next year and I believe in the group we have and the direction we’re heading.
“No matter what the season throws at us, I can guarantee that I will do everything I can to get myself and my teammates in the best position to bring home the ultimate prize for our loyal fans and members.”
Senior coach Brett Ratten credited the person Steele is both on and off the field.
“Jack is the type of person who always gives everything he has,” he said.
“Whether it’s during a game, out at training or helping out a teammate off the field, he never hesitates to share his knowledge and time, with the main aim of making us better as a collective.
“As a coach, I couldn’t ask for much more from a player. We’re really lucky and proud to have him commit to the club long-term and I’m sure all Saints fans feel the same.”
The Saints failed to live up to expectations in 2021 when missing the top eight but have the list profile to be around the mark next year.
#5TEELE 📝🔒 pic.twitter.com/7XTiuG1lsL
— St Kilda FC (@stkildafc) December 16, 2021