Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, 22, is one of the AFL’s best players. At the least, he made his mark in the club’s history in what already was an underdog’s success story notable performance that sparked an all-timer of a comeback win. The young forward scored the last two goals in an absolute barnburner of a match. St Kilda pulled off a stunning comeback, coming back from a mind-boggling 46 points down, the biggest three-quarter-time comeback in VFL/AFL history. Wanganeen-Milera’s exceptional game sent a message that he’s among the best players in this competition. It motivated his teammates and energized fans too.
In a blockbuster match against Melbourne, Wanganeen-Milera delivered with the game on the line. His remarkable outing played a pivotal role in his team clinching the championship. His contributions have sparked massive enthusiasm among activists and donors. They’re starting to view him as a key piece of St Kilda’s long-term rebuild and their pursuit of a second premiership. During and after the game, defense footage appeared. It features Wanganeen-Milera celebrating on head coach Ross Lyon’s shoulders—an image that beautifully encapsulates the jubilation that has exploded from within the club’s walls.
Hunter Clark, a teammate, praised Wanganeen-Milera’s talent on the field, calling him “an absolute freak.” Clark pointed out how important Wanganeen-Milera has become to the club. He’s made no secret of his desire to keep him at St Kilda “for life.” This feeling is pretty representative of the excitement throughout the club. They are being intentionally dogged on deepening their engagement and accountability, internally sharpening their focus and performance.
Wanganeen-Milera’s impressive outing is not merely a product of talent. It highlights the concerted efforts by St Kilda’s coaching staff to foster an environment conducive to growth. In post-game press conference Coach Ross Lyon acknowledged the effort the team had put in. He announced plans for a “family function” — so that they could further bond as a family, team.
Clark strived to continue this notion, highlighting experience and personal growth. “If we can just end the year on a high note, end it strong, just continue getting experience into everyone and continue growing,” he said. He described the club’s long-term vision, elaborating that “Then roll up your sleeves this summer. It’s not something that’s just going to happen overnight.”
As St Kilda prepares for 2026, they only need to consider their recent Marvel Stadium miracle to feel heartened. It goes without saying that Wanganeen-Milera’s contributions will be crucial as the team continues to find its way forward. His performance made a strong case for his individual excellence. It simultaneously sparked joy for St Kilda’s fans.
Having such a big decision to make about his future, Wanganeen-Milera is at the crossroads on what to do. He’s not the only one grappling with a momentous choice. That is the very basis of a planning process, Clark noted. I have faith that he’ll make the best decision for himself, and regardless of an outcome, all love will remain.
