Quartet of Saints renew contracts

23/11/2021

Co-captain Deanna Joliffe headlines a list of four re-signings alongside Hannah Stuart and youngsters Mel Bertuna and Amelia Peck.

Mel Bertuna and Deanna Jolliffe have both re-signed for season 2022. Photo by AFL Media

28-year-old Joliffe was a barometer for the Saints in 2021 and excelled with her leadership, averaging 14 disposals in 15 games and applying constant defensive pressure in her customary midfield role.

She finished eighth in the Best & Fairest and enters her fourth season with the club in 2022.

Fellow midfielder Hannah Stuart has also recommitted to the club, building on an outstanding season where she was Runner-Up in the Southern Saints Best & Fairest.

Stuart’s stoppage work and strength in the contest is a highlight of her game, and she averaged 18 possessions this year to establish herself as one of the VFLW’s best inside midfielders.

She was named in the Saints best in both finals against Port Melbourne and Geelong, showcasing her ability to thrive under pressure.

The 27-year-old played in 15 matches in 2021 and will be important to the Saints on-field success in 2022.

Stuart is joined in the midfield by Mel Bertuna, with the 20-year-old establishing herself as a regular in the Saints best 22 in what was a breakout season for the youngster.

Bertuna is an emerging leader who is explosive out of stoppages and a powerful contested ball winner with significant upside. 

She averaged 11 disposals in 2021 and is set for another impressive season next year.

Key position player Amelia Peck rounds out the signings after a promising first year for the 21-year-old in Saints colours.

At 183 centimetres, Peck was an imposing presence in both the backline and forward line alongside former co-captain Tara Bohanna, who she formed a strong partnership with towards the end of the season.

Peck’s marking ability was a highlight of her 2021 campaign, averaging 3 per game across her 12 matches.

She was particularly impressive in the semi-final against Geelong, kicking a goal alongside a season-high 6 marks.

The club looks forward to welcoming back all four players in 2022.

Written by Jack Bennett - Sandringham Football Club Media