St Kilda's highly touted draftee Tobie Travaglia is being primed for a significant role in the midfield in 2025.
Travaglia was taken with Pick 8 in the 2024 AFL Draft from the Bendigo Pioneers, making his name across the defensive line with the capabilities of pushing further up the ground.
The on-ball brigade has been an area for improvement for the Saints since greats Lenny Hayes, Brendon Goddard and Nick Dal Santo departed the club.
Albeit Travaglia's talent warranted a top 10 selection, his choice, along with utility Alix Taura, was a surprise on draft night, with many believing the Saints would elect a genuine midfielder.
However, coach Ross Lyon has made it abundantly clear that his players must have the ability to play multiple positions, which is something that Travaglia has in spades.
Latching onto captain and midfielder Jack Steele, the youngster is eyeing a Round 1 debut.
"One that comes to mind is 'Steeley' with the midfield stuff," Travaglia said.
"I'm looking to work into that midfield role as the years go on, so I'm (hoping) to understand the roles and the craft, which is something I've been relying on (Jack) on.
"Pinch-hits (in the midfield) but roles that will require more running as well as outside (work) on the half back and the wing.
"But in the future, that's (permanent midfield time) the plan."
Travaglia's inclusion into the Moorabbin club will help free up a host of his new teammates to move further up the ground, namely Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera and Jack Sinclair.
Following the loss of Josh Battle, the Saints took an approach of adding height to its list, welcoming draftee James Barrat and inviting SANFL star Harry Boyd to train as an SSP prospect.
Battle's departure also opens the door to a variety of options Lyon has at his disposal, including Anthony Caminiti and youngster Arie Schoenmaker.
