Dear Steve,

Speaking to the St Kilda selection committee, they definitely have the confidence to select youth. Last weekend against Richmond, 19 year old Daniel Archer debuted after recently being elevated from the Rookie list. New recruit Jamie Cripps was named as an emergency in Round 1 and last week Nick Winmar was also named as an emergency; which suggests that the Football department have confidence in these boys and that the young crop of players are pushing hard for senior selection.

Over the past few years the side has been so successful and therefore it has been a very settled side, which makes it hard for emerging young players to break into the side. Please be assured that we will continue to introduce new talent to the St Kilda team when the players are ready physically and emotionally for the rigours of AFL football.

Regards,

Michael Nettlefold