Few AFL players personify resilience, strength, and leadership quite like Jack Steele. As St Kilda’s former captain and current midfield general, Steele continues to anchor the Saints with relentless drive and composure. His career, filled with personal triumphs and team challenges, reflects both the grind and the glory of modern football.
In 2025, after several years of leading his side with pride, Steele surprised fans by stepping down as captain—a move that sparked speculation about his future. Yet, as he transitions into the next phase of his career, one truth remains: Jack Steele is still the beating heart of St Kilda’s midfield.
Jack Steele: Early Beginnings and Path to the AFL
Born in Canberra on December 13, 1995, Jack Steele’s early football journey began with the Belconnen Magpies in the ACT. His talent was apparent from an early age. He dominated junior competitions and earned selection for the GWS Giants Academy, paving his path to the AFL Draft.
The Greater Western Sydney Giants selected him in the 2014 AFL Draft, and he made his senior debut in 2015. Although Steele’s time at the Giants was short, it was vital to his growth. Competing among stars like Josh Kelly and Callan Ward, he learned professionalism and endurance—the foundations that would later define his career.
After two seasons and limited opportunities at GWS, Steele sought a new home. In 2016, St Kilda traded for the tough midfielder, recognizing his inside-ball brilliance and unflinching spirit. The move would change his career forever.
Establishing Himself at St Kilda
From his first season in red, white, and black, Jack Steele became a fixture in the Saints’ engine room. His ability to win contested possessions, tackle ferociously, and lead through action quickly set him apart.
By 2019, Steele had become St Kilda’s most reliable player. He consistently ranked near the top of the league for tackles and clearances, earning admiration for his effort and composure under pressure.
In 2020, Steele’s consistency was rewarded: he claimed the Trevor Barker Award as St Kilda’s Best and Fairest and earned All-Australian honors for his outstanding performances. His leadership qualities began to shine through—he was no longer just a hardworking midfielder; he was a player teammates looked up to.
Becoming the Leader: St Kilda’s Captain
Ahead of the 2021 season, St Kilda appointed Jack Steele as captain—a role he embraced with humility and determination. Known for leading by example rather than loud words, he embodied quiet authority. His professionalism became the standard for teammates to follow.
As captain, Steele’s on-field presence symbolized consistency. Whether winning clearances, laying bone-crunching tackles, or lifting spirits after a loss, he shouldered responsibility with grace.
Under his leadership, the Saints battled inconsistencies but remained competitive. Steele was the rock holding the team together. Even during form slumps, his individual output rarely faltered, often topping possession and tackle counts.
His calm but uncompromising approach reflected the club’s fighting identity—a spirit fans deeply respected.
Jack Steele’s Playing Style: Grit Meets Grace
Few midfielders blend ferocity and finesse like Steele. His style is based on endurance, intelligence, and effort rather than flair. Below are the key aspects that define his game.
Contested Ball Dominance
Steele thrives in tight spaces. He reads stoppages better than most, winning hard ball in heavy traffic. His quick hands and body strength make him an elite inside midfielder capable of turning contests into clearances.
Tackling Pressure
Renowned for his defensive effort, Steele consistently ranks among the AFL’s best tacklers. His pressure acts disrupt opposition movement, setting a defensive tone that motivates teammates.
Leadership Under Fire
Steele remains calm even in high-pressure moments. When games tighten, he steadies the ship, guiding younger players through tense finishes. His on-field communication and composure are his greatest leadership assets.
Versatility and Endurance
While primarily an inside midfielder, Steele’s versatility allows him to push forward or defend as required. His elite fitness levels enable him to run out full quarters at the same intensity as he begins them.
Game Awareness
Steele’s football IQ is often underrated. He understands spacing, timing, and team structures, making him one of the AFL’s most tactically astute midfielders.
Stepping Down as Captain: The Turning Point
In October 2025, Steele made headlines by stepping down as St Kilda captain. His announcement came just days before the AFL trade period, igniting discussions across the league about his future.
Steele explained that the decision was about “refocusing on performance” rather than relinquishing responsibility. “It felt like the right time to reset and concentrate purely on my football,” he said in interviews following the news.
Yet, rumours quickly surfaced suggesting that Steele’s move was tied to internal structural shifts at St Kilda and his changing midfield role. As new talent emerged, the leadership transition reflected the club’s evolving direction.
Despite speculation, Steele reaffirmed his commitment to the Saints, insisting he would see out his contract through 2027. Still, the whispers continued—especially as rival clubs began circling.
Trade Speculation: The 2025 Headlines
In the weeks after his captaincy resignation, reports emerged linking Jack Steele to several clubs, most notably Melbourne. According to multiple AFL media outlets, Melbourne showed late interest in securing Steele to bolster their midfield depth.
While no official trade request was lodged, discussions raised eyebrows across the league. Steele’s high work rate and leadership made him a valuable prospect, but his strong contract with St Kilda posed logistical challenges.
Insiders suggested that St Kilda was open to listening to offers if they aligned with the club’s long-term strategy. However, fans reacted passionately, voicing their desire to keep the veteran Saint at Moorabbin.
Ultimately, no deal materialized, but the incident underscored Steele’s stature—he remains one of the AFL’s most respected and sought-after leaders.
The Heart of St Kilda’s Midfield
Even as leadership transitions take place, Jack Steele remains central to St Kilda’s on-field structure. Alongside emerging midfielders like Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera and Marcus Windhager, Steele’s presence ensures balance and experience in the contest.
He provides direction in stoppages, shields younger teammates from physical pressure, and sets the example through effort. Every tackle and clearance from Steele signals to teammates that standards will not drop.
St Kilda’s 2025 season saw flashes of promise, and Steele’s resilience continued to define the club’s spirit. His consistency has made him the standard-bearer for effort and integrity.
Accolades and Career Highlights
Jack Steele’s list of achievements reflects his sustained excellence:
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Two-time Trevor Barker Award winner (2020, 2021)
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Two-time All-Australian selection (2020, 2021)
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St Kilda captain (2021 – 2025)
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AFLPA Leadership award nominee (multiple seasons)
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Over 170 AFL games and 30+ goals by 2025
His accolades showcase both individual brilliance and unwavering team commitment.
Off-Field Life and Community Work
Off the field, Steele is known for humility and a grounded personality. He avoids the limelight, preferring to spend time with family and give back to his community.
He supports mental health awareness initiatives and regularly participates in St Kilda’s community programs. His reputation as a genuine, approachable leader off the ground matches his professionalism on it.
This balance of intensity and humility explains why Steele remains one of the AFL’s most admired players—not just for what he does, but how he carries himself.
Jack Steele’s Legacy at St Kilda
Regardless of what lies ahead, Steele’s legacy at St Kilda is secure. He transformed from a GWS prospect into one of the most dependable midfielders of his generation.
He helped redefine the Saints’ work ethic and guided the club through rebuilding years with pride and resilience. Whether or not he wears the captain’s armband again, his influence on the next generation is undeniable.
Teammates often describe him as “the heartbeat” of the locker room—a title earned not through words, but through unrelenting consistency and example.
What’s Next for Jack Steele?
Looking ahead, Steele’s path could unfold in several directions:
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Remain with St Kilda: Continue as a senior leader and mentor while maintaining elite performance levels.
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Potential Trade Opportunity: If opportunities arise elsewhere, he may consider a move that offers renewed motivation or championship potential.
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Transition to Mentorship: Steele could embrace a player-coach style role, supporting emerging midfielders and shaping the team’s leadership core.
Whichever road he takes, his professionalism guarantees impact. Whether in a St Kilda jumper or elsewhere, Steele’s brand of football—honest, unyielding, and team-first—will endure.
Conclusion
Jack Steele is more than a footballer—he’s a symbol of effort, integrity, and quiet strength. His decision to step down as captain marked not decline, but evolution: a moment to refocus on what made him elite in the first place.
For St Kilda, Steele remains indispensable. For the AFL, he stands as a benchmark of professionalism. As speculation about his future continues, one thing is certain: wherever Jack Steele plays, he’ll give everything—because that’s who he is, and that’s what the Saints’ faithful have always loved about him.
