Jack Hayes (born 6 March 1996)^[1] is a professional Australian rules footballer playing for the St Kilda Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). He was drafted as a 26-year-old in the 2022 Pre-Season Supplemental Selection Period.

Early life

Hayes is from South Australia and grew up supporting the Adelaide Crows.^[2] Hayes' brother Nick was a rookie-listed Brisbane Lions player from 2013-2014. Hayes played for South Australian side Woodville-West Torrens, winning the premiership in 2020. In 2021 Hayes captained the SA state team after being recognised as one of the most versatile and influential players in the SANFL,^[3] finished equal third in the Magarey Medal and won the Jack Oatey for best on ground in the grand final (polling 27 of a possible 27 votes) as Woodville-West Torrens claimed their second successive premiership. Hayes collected 26 disposals, nine marks, seven clearances, three tackles and a goal in the grand final win. Hayes also averaged just under 20 disposals, more than seven score involvements and a goal in the SANFL that season.^[4] Hayes also played alongside future St Kilda teammate Cooper Sharman. Hayes played over 100 games with the Eagles.^{[citation needed]}

AFL career

In December 2021, Hayes was invited to train with AFL side St Kilda. Hayes played the second half in a practice match against Carlton in February 2022, playing as a forward/ruck.^{[citation needed]} Hayes was formally acquired by the Saints as a rookie on 2 March 2022 as part of the Pre-Season Supplemental Selection Period.^[5]

Hayes made his senior debut against Collingwood in the first round of the 2022 AFL season, being named one of the best on ground after kicking 3 goals.^[6]

Statistics

Updated to the end of round 7, 2023.^[7]

Notes