Liam Ryan is officially a Saint for 2026 after getting his trade wish, joining a crop of stars making the shift to Moorabbin this trade period.
Ryan, 29, departs the Eagles after 125 games across eight seasons in exchange for a future second round pick.
In a competition first, St Kilda also receive a third round selection tied to the 2027 draft. It's the first time a trade pick has been traded two years in advance.
The 2018 premiership player requested a trade in August, and had nominated the Saints as his preferred destination for next year.
Via the Saints on Thursday, Ryan said the club's Indigenous programs, culture and playing cohort were a factor in his motivations.
"I'm really excited to be joining St Kilda and taking on this next chapter in my career," he said.
"There's a great energy about this group, and you can feel the hunger to improve and do something great.
"I want to bring my experience and help spark the forward line but also keep learning and pushing myself to be the best I can for the team.
"I was also really drawn to St Kilda's strong First Nations programs and culture. The Saints have one of the largest First Nations groups of any club, and to play alongside guys like Bradley Hill, Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera and Marcus Windhager, who are making an impact both on and off the field, was a huge drawcard for me."
Ryan added he was grateful for his time at the Eagles, who will "always hold a special place in my heart", and Melbourne offered new opportunities for his career and young family.
He joins former Sun Sam Flanders, and Carlton's Jack Silvagni and Tom De Koning, as new arrivals to St Kilda this trade period.
Speaking to Trade Radio earlier this week, Eagles list boss Matt Clarke said the club were happy to keep Ryan, and that there was no bad blood between the two parties, and that it would be up to St Kilda to bring a good deal to the table.
Ryan was contracted to West Coast through to the end of next year.
"Liam is a proven match-winner with unique talent. His aerial ability, creativity and football instincts make him a player fans love to watch and teammates love to play with," St Kilda chief executive Carl Dilena said.
"Just as importantly, he is a respected First Nations leader in the AFL. His experience and voice will further strengthen our club's proud commitment to First Nations programs and to creating an environment where players can thrive both on and off the field.
"We're thrilled to welcome not only Liam, but the entire Ryan family, to St Kilda. Their presence will be embraced by our community, and we know together they will add enormous value to the fabric of our club."
West Coast head of footy John Worsfold said the club were "disappointed to lose Liam" and a "terrific leader" but proud of his achievements there and wished his family the best for the future.
