He’s one of the most experienced coaches in the AFL and he won’t be leaving anytime soon with Ross Lyon signing a one-year extension as senior coach at St Kilda.

Lyon was already signed on for the 2026 season but will now coach into 2027 following the extension.

He rejoined the Saints in late 2022 following an eight-year stint with Fremantle and led them to the finals in his first season back with a sixth-place finish.

However last season was a disaster as they slid out of finals to 12th with many predicting the Saints to fall in further in 2025.

But as St Kilda undergo a rebuild with Lyon turning to youth at the end of last season the club believes Lyon’s steady hand is what’s needed to get them back in contention.

“By extending Ross’ contract, we are ensuring stability in leadership and reinforcing our commitment to long-term success. In the past, we have wavered from our plans, but this decision reflects our resolve to stay the course this time,” president Andrew Bassat said.

“We have made strong progress on our planned build towards contention since Ross rejoined us. We have transformed from one of the oldest lists in the competition to one of the youngest through considered list management, bolstered our development and analytic capabilities, gotten more games into players under 21 than almost any other team.

“Ross’ commitment to driving success is unwavering. I look forward to working with him and seeing where he and his colleagues can take our blend of strong experienced leaders and exciting young talent over the next three years.”

As Lyon enters what will be his 16th year as a senior coach he still has the same passion for the job that he held on day one.

“I’m as passionate about coaching and bringing this club success as I was on the first day I walked through the doors over 15 years ago,” Lyon said.

“Holding the position of senior coach is a privilege I don’t take lightly. It is my responsibility to make those around me not only better but great, so that we as a collective can realise our club’s potential.

“We will leave no stone unturned over the next three years to ensure we take purposeful, powerful steps towards achieving the ultimate success.”