St Kilda has re-signed emerging young ruckmen Lewis Pierce and Billy Longer, tying the pair to the club until at least the end of 2018.

With Tom Hickey enjoying a breakout season, the Saints boast a deep, talented ruck department with Pierce, Longer and Jason Holmes all sharing the ruck responsibility at Sandringham.

St Kilda Chief Operating Officer & Legal Counsel Ameet Bains says the club is thrilled to secure the pair’s services for a further couple of years.

“We’re really pleased to be able to lock down two talented young ruckmen who have significant scope for improvement,” Bains told saints.com.au on Tuesday night.

“Competition for the No. 1 ruck spot is fierce, which has been highly beneficial for all involved. With all fit ruckmen striving to play senior football, the results speak for themselves this season.”

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After waiting three and a half seasons to earn a call up at the highest level, Pierce was rewarded with a debut against Carlton in Round 12.

With Alan Richardson reluctant to play more than one ruckman, Pierce has only managed the one appearance this year, although the progress in his development has been impressive.

“Lewy has really come on in leaps and bounds this season and his debut was a great reward for his perseverance,” Bains said.

“With Hickey producing a breakout season, Lewy has been forced to bide his time in the VFL, but his progress there has been very impressive.”

Longer has endured a more difficult season at Linen House Centre, with the former first-round draft pick coming off a shoulder reconstruction before suffering from delayed concussion symptoms.

The 23-year-old played 18 games in 2015 for a career total of 43, but has managed only nine games with Sandringham this season amid injury issues.

“It’s been a tough year for Billy due to his shoulder reconstruction and concussion, but we only need to look back to last year to see how much potential he has,” Bains said.

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