St Kilda axes coach in massive Saints shock

St Kilda has axed head coach Brett Ratten.

That’s what The Age has reported following the Saints’ review of their football operations.

The bombshell has landed just three months after Ratten inked a two-year extension with St Kilda, contracting him to the Saints until the end of 2024.

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Ratten has coached St Kilda since taking over from Alan Richardson ahead of the 2019 season.

Ratten, who was also fired as Carlton head coach late in the 2012 season, guided St Kilda to the finals in 2020 but failed to do so in the two years that followed.

In 2022, St Kilda won eight of its first 11 games and sat in fourth on the ladder at the completion of round 11, but managed just three victories from its last 11 matches en route to finishing in 10th.

The embattled club was then unsuccessful in its pursuit of securing gun Collingwood forward Jordan De Goey during the trade period.

Looking back at comments from St Kilda president Andrew Bassat following the re-signing of Ratten in July makes for perplexing reading.

“As the leader of our men’s program, Brett has secured significant buy-in from his fellow coaches, staff and players alike,” Bassat said in a letter to members.

“In addition to his strong football IQ, our players appreciate his ability to develop strong relationships, which he uses as a foundation to challenge each individual to get better and to deliver their role for the team.

“This balance, and the ability to unite his coaches, players and staff in a relentless quest for excellence, makes Brett the best person to lead us towards our much longed-for second premiership.”

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