ST KILDA is reshuffling its team around Alan Richardson as it prepares to extend the senior coach's contract, with assistant Aaron Hamill moving to VFL affiliate Sandringham.

Hamill will replace Lindsay Gilbee as the Zebras' senior coach in 2018, with Gilbee to remain at the Saints in a development role. 

Football manager Jamie Cox said the move was designed to enhance the skills of the club's coaches, giving Hamill the chance to lead his own team – a key step for prospective AFL senior coaches.    

"It’s really important for our coaches to have new challenges and opportunities to diversify their skills," Cox said. 

"Lindsay did a fantastic job at Sandringham this season, with a number of our players recapturing form with the Zebras before returning to play a vital role in the senior side. 

"Aaron has also been a vital part of our group, looking after the forwards at AFL level and will now have responsibility of overseeing his own team in 2018." 

The Saints' team of assistants includes Level Four graduate and midfield coach Adam Kingsley, backline coach Rohan Welsh and director of coaching and development Danny Sexton. 

As well as Gilbee, the club has Simon McPhee, Ben McGlynn and Peta Searle in development roles, and Adam Skrobalak (ruck) and Danny Frawley (defence) in part-time positions.

Further changes to the club's structure remain likely as an extension for Richardson draws close after four years in charge. 

The 52-year-old is not out of contract until the end of next season, but it is understood discussions between the two parties are well advanced.   

"I think the club's pretty close from what I can gather. He's done a great job the last four years improving the group every year," former skipper Nick Riewoldt said on SEN radio this week.  

"I know statistically this year we didn't win as many games, but I think our performances this year were far better than last year … he's done a great job." 

Hamill, who played 190 games for Carlton and St Kilda between 1996 and 2006, joined the Saints as an assistant coach in 2012.

Sandringham CEO John Mennie said his appointment presented a great opportunity for the younger Saints and Sandringham-listed players to learn from an accomplished coach.

He thanked Gilbee for his efforts this season, saying the former Western Bulldogs defender's insight and football knowledge had been invaluable for the club's young players.