Sandringham have drawn a clear line in the sand, rejecting proposed changes from AFL affiliate St Kilda that would see the VFL club abandon their traditional colours and home ground from 2025.
In a statement released on Friday, Zebras president Nick Johnstone confirmed the club’s firm stance amid efforts from the Saints to deepen their alignment by introducing St Kilda’s red, white and black strip and shifting Sandringham home games to RSEA Park.
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“In protecting our 96 year history, we are adamant that we remain in our colours, play at our home ground, Wilson Storage Trevor Barker Beach Oval and remain as the Zebras,” Johnstone said.
A century-old identity not up for compromise
The Zebras, who have called the VFA/VFL home since 1929 and lifted ten premierships across their history, have been aligned with St Kilda since 2009, following a previous partnership with Melbourne.
However, despite efforts to strengthen ties, including an AFL pledge to recruit a VFL pathway player, St Kilda opted to fill its 2024 list via the National Draft.
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The proposed changes would mark a significant shift in identity for Sandringham, but Johnstone made it clear the club has no interest in abandoning its roots.
“We will continue to work through the future of our alignment with St Kilda, and every decision we make will be in the best interest of the Sandringham Football Club,” he said. “These proposed changes are for our alignment next year. The 2025 VFL and VFLW alignment remains as is.”
Now coached by former Saints star Brendon Goddard, the Zebras are looking to rebuild after a rocky few years. Finals have eluded them since 2016, and they’ve managed just one win from four games to start this season.