Coach of the St Kilda Football Club, Ross Lyon, announced on Saturday night that four (4) highly valued and respected players; Michael Gardiner, Steven Baker, Andrew McQualter and Robert Eddy, would be departing the Saints at season’s end 2011.

In recognition of the part they’ve each played in the Club’s growth and success, the Coach made the announcement following the team’s exit from its fourth successive finals appearance.

All four (4) players played in the Club’s recent Grand Final appearances and end their careers at the Saints’ with honour and admiration.

Michael Gardiner, No. 15 for St Kilda since 2007, is retiring from AFL at the age of 32. Gardiner debuted in 1997, was named All Australian in 2003 and played an outstanding 200 games for West Coast Eagles and the Saints.

Coach Ross Lyon congratulated Gardiner on his exceptional career and reflected on the role he has played at the Club over the last five years.

Steven Baker will end his career with the St Kilda Football Club after a stellar 203 games. Baker debuted for the Saints in 1999 and won the Club’s Best & Fairest award in 2005.

Coach Ross Lyon thanked Baker for his outstanding contribution to the Club and wished him well in his future, both within and beyond AFL.

Andrew McQualter debuted in 2005 and has played an impressive 89 games in the No. 32 jumper for the Saints. Coach Ross Lyon acknowledged the substantial role 24 year old McQualter played in the Saints’ 2009 and 2010 Grand Final appearances.

St Kilda picked up Robert Eddy as a Rookie in 2007 and he debuted in 2008. The 23 year old was a solid contributor for the Saints, playing 33 games and kicking 10 goals.

The St Kilda Football Club extends its sincere appreciation to Michael, Steven, Andrew and Robert for their devotion and dedication to the Club.

All four (4) players have provided outstanding service to the St Kilda Football Club; etched their unique mark in the history of the Saints and the hearts of its supporters.

The St Kilda Football Club wishes each player every success for the future.