St Kilda have revealed they were left a little red-faced when trying to get in touch with one of their new signings.
It’s been a busy week for clubs around the AFL, with St Kilda picking up Tobie Travaglia and Alix Tauru on the opening night of this year’s National Draft.
St Kilda picked up Patrick Said, Hugh Boxshall, Alex Dodson and James Barrat on night two of the draft.
Dodson was a popular candidate for many clubs, with Richmond backed to make a move for the dual-sport star.
In fact, the 201cm ruck prospect previously represented Australia at age level playing basketball.
The Adelaide 36ers had also offered him a development player spot, but the Saints newcomer now looks set for a career in the AFL.
St Kilda signed ruckman Alex Dodson in the national draft earlier this week but was left a bit red-faced
Dodson, who stands 201cm tall, was one of the best ruck prospects in this year’s draft
St Kilda tried to send a message to their new player, Dodson, but seemed to be messaging the wrong person
The ruckman was picked at number 53 for the Saints, but the footy club appear to have made a minor blunder when trying to get in touch with the 18-year-old.
The Saints’ social media team had contacted the young football star to see if he could provide them with a video of Dodson or his family reacting to the news he had been snapped up by the Victorian club.
“Hey Alex, welcome to the Saints from the media team here,” the Saints had written in a text message to a number they believed was Dodson.
‘If you have any videos of the reactions at your home tonight that we can share on our social channels, please forward them!’
But it seems they sent the request to the wrong number, and a person named Garron sent back a heartwarming response.
“You have the wrong number, my name is Garron and I’m a professor at ***** and I would only sign for the Pies!”, the person replied.
“It’s best to find Alex’s real number because this is a big moment for him and he deserves your honor and support. Congratulate him from me :),” the professor added.
The Saints were somewhat embarrassed by the exchange and responded, “Oops! But always welcome to jump on the Saints…’
Dodson is also an accomplished basketball player and could have played for the Adelaide 36ers
The Saints would eventually make contact with their new ruckman.
“We ended up running into Alex Dodson, don’t worry,” they added.
Dodson had his football career on hold for the entire 2023 season after pursuing his dream of playing basketball.
But he returned to enjoy an excellent 2024 with Sturt, making his SANFL U18 debut in Round 6 before playing nine games.
His season ended with All-Australian honors after helping Sturt reach the final.
St Kilda, meanwhile, spoke out about their new signings, saying: “We are delighted to have James, Hugh, Alex, Patrick and their families joining us at St Kilda,” said St Kilda football boss David Misson.
“James is a powerful intercepting defender whose aerial numbers were elite for Bendigo. Combined with his powerful kicking, it makes him an exciting player to watch for the Saints.
‘Hugh is an athletic and tough midfielder who is a very exciting prospect and will be a great addition to our midfield mix.
“Alex is the elite ruck in this year’s draft and his ability to not only win the hitout but also follow up on the field is a big asset for us.
‘Patrick is a running, skilful striker who spent some time in midfield for Calder and played well there. A very exciting prospect for us that adds versatility.
“We wish James, Hugh, Alex and Patrick all the best at St Kilda and look forward to welcoming them to the club soon.”