St Kilda forward Mitchito Owens has penned a four-year contract extension to remain at Moorabbin until 2029.
The 21-year-old Next Generation Academy graduate has developed significantly since being selected at Pick 33 in 2021, playing all 23 games last season, and missing just one match since 2023.
The versatile Saint averaged 3.2 marks and 12.3 disposals in 2024, and kicked 20 goals across his 23 appearances.
Owens was involved in an injury scare against Port Adelaide last Saturday after being pushed under the ball in a marking contest, however scans revealed the forward avoided any major damage to his AC joint and will not require surgery.
Continuing with the positive news surrounding Owens, St Kilda announced his four-year extension on Thursday.
โMitch is a well-loved member of our playing group, and we're all really looking forward to seeing him continue to build on what's already been a great start to his career,โ executive general manager David Misson said.
โMitch is dedicated to his craft and doing all he can to improve as quickly as possible.
โWe see a bright future ahead for Mitch and are very glad it'll be in Saints colours."
Owens said the decision was a no-brainer after enjoying success at the elite level due to his development through St Kilda's NGA program.
โI love this club. I've practically grown up here, and it's a great feeling to know I'll remain at Moorabbin for another four years,โ Owens said.
โI live with some of my best mates, Windy (Marcus Windhager) and Nas (Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera), just around the corner, and I get to play footy for a living - I know how lucky I am to be in this position, and it's not something I take for granted.
โMy aim for the next four years is to repay the faith the club has shown in me and do everything I can to help us achieve the ultimate success.โ
The Saints begin their 2025 campaign against Adelaide on Sunday, March 16.
