St Kilda Football Club is determined to secure the future of star player Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, reportedly considering signing his cousin, Tex Wanganeen, to enhance their chances of keeping him. AFL reporter Tom Morris revealed that the Saints are leaving “no stone unturned” in their efforts to convince Wanganeen-Milera to remain at Moorabbin.
Tex, the son of 1993 Brownlow Medallist and Essendon legend Gavin Wanganeen, has had a challenging start to his career. After three years on Essendon’s list, where he played five matches in 2022, Tex was delisted at the end of the 2024 season. He spent the last year playing for Port Melbourne in the VFL and, although the Saints aimed to add him to their VFL list before the 2025 deadline, they missed this opportunity.
Now, St Kilda appears ready to bring Tex into their training squad over summer, contingent on his cousin Wanganeen-Milera signing a long-term deal with the club. There are speculations that Wanganeen-Milera could return to his home state of South Australia, with clubs Adelaide and Port Adelaide showing interest. His market value has reportedly soared to $2 million per season. While St Kilda is financially capable of matching offers, they face the challenge of persuading the 22-year-old to stay with the struggling team.
Morris described St Kilda’s strategies to retain Wanganeen-Milera, highlighting their commitment and urgency. The club’s recruitment heads, Stephen Silvagni and Gubby Allen, see potential in Tex, believing he could independently contribute to the team. Tex recently applied for a permit to join St Kilda’s VFL affiliate, Sandringham, but missed the transfer deadline, meaning he will continue his season in the VAFA. If Wanganeen-Milera re-signs, St Kilda plans to have Tex participate in pre-season training, with a view to promoting him to their senior list eventually.
Tex Wanganeen’s talent, coupled with his family connection to Wanganeen-Milera, might serve as a decisive factor in the latter’s contract negotiations. In a recent standout performance, Wanganeen-Milera scored two crucial goals in the final moments of a match against Melbourne, showcasing his abilities and importance to the team. He faces a significant decision in the coming weeks as St Kilda’s season approaches its end.
Overall, St Kilda’s concerted efforts to bolster their roster by potentially bringing in Tex Wanganeen reflect their desperation to secure the allegiance of one of their top players. With only a month left in their season, the focus now shifts to Wanganeen-Milera’s impending decision regarding his future at the club.