ST KILDA half-forward Darren Minchington has signed a new one-year deal that will keep him at the Saints until at least the end of 2016.

The 21-year-old played five senior games this season, including three of the last four.

He booted the Saints’ first two goals in the drawn game against Geelong in round 21 and laid seven tackles against Melbourne in round 11.

“I’m stoked to have re-signed with the club for another season,” Minchington told SAINTS.com.au.

“We have a really exciting group of up-and-coming players that are all working together to achieve our goals in the future. To be a part of that and hopefully play an important role next year is great.

“I wouldn’t want to play anywhere else.”

The signing is the latest in a series of key contract announcements ahead of the 2016 season. In recent weeks midfielder David Armitage, defenders Sean Dempster, Sam Gilbert, ruckmen Tom Hickey and Jason Holmes have all confirmed their commitment to the club in new deals.

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Coach Alan Richardson recently penned a deal that will see him remain as senior coach until at least the end of 2018, while midfielder Jack Steven signed a five-year deal at the start of the season.

Richardson said Minchington’s new contract is reward for his hard work this season.

“Darren is another one of our young players that showed great potential in 2015,” Richardson told SAINTS.com.au.

“We have a really exciting core group of young players that are still learning their craft. Darren showed us he is not only skilful but has excellent defensive pressure this season. We believe he will take his game to the next level in 2016.”

Aside from showing positive signs as a forward at AFL level this year, Minchington has been prolific as a midfielder for Sandringham in the VFL.

Minchington was selected in the 2012 Rookie Draft and debuted against Hawthorn in round 20, 2013. He has booted 12 goals in 10 senior games.