Meet the President – Liam Burns
We’re excited to share this catch-up with Liam Burns, who stepped into the role of Club President at the start of the season.
With big shoes to fill after Renee’s five-year term, Liam brings fresh ideas and plenty of enthusiasm for the club’s future. In this interview, he shares a little about his background, how he got involved with the club, and his hopes for the seasons ahead.
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Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself—where you grew up and the sports you played as a kid?
I grew up in Newcastle, playing soccer in winter, sailing skiffs in summer and swimming and surfing nearly all year round. When I was 18 or 19, I was playing grade soccer for a small club that was very exclusive around who played first grade. I’d had enough of the politics and so my stepfather (a Victorian) suggested giving AFL a go. I went down to Newcastle City and joined up, falling in love with our game instantly.
Newcastle City was a great club, warm, inviting and welcoming of all people and abilities. I played nearly 100 games there before I moved to Sydney for work, where I played 2 seasons with Sydney University before my Achilles (both of them) decided it was time to hang up the boots.
Q: How did you first get involved with The Saints?
When my eldest son was 4, I was keen to us both involved. We came down to the first training in 2019 and I became one of the coaches in the Under 5s in Auskick. To this day I am still coaching him, and it is one of the most joyous things to see all the kids grow and develop their skills and approach to footy. I’ve developed strong friendships with parents too.
Q: What would you say to parents who might be thinking about getting more involved in the club? Where’s the best place to start?
Anyone can get involved, play and most importantly be part of a great club that is welcoming, fun and community focussed. Whether as a player or volunteer, it’s just getting in there and having a go. I came to football ‘late’ and played for nearly 10 years and during that time formed great friendships, had wonderful experiences and kept in ‘relative’ shape.
Q: Where do you see the biggest opportunities for our club to grow over the next three years?
Our club has amazing traditions and is inclusive and community oriented. We have some great opportunities to continue to grow. Our committee has been working hard in many areas for example, a focus is on increasing girls’ participation and skills; we’re working with the AFL on establishing an Indigenous program; creating pathways to senior football; and improving our grounds and facilities (including contingencies for wet weather). During the year and into 2026 we intend on making announcements on these and other great opportunities.
Q: Why do you think being part of a local sports club is so important for kids?
Kids need sport and social activities to grow and develop, and a local sports club allows children foster relationships with others beyond their immediate circle and the school they attend. Sport allows children to develop discipline, teamwork and resilience.
Q: And what about your own family—are they involved in sports too?
My boys have tried may sports and the only one that sticks is AFL. They’ve done nippers and soccer and are now exploring mountain bike riding. Hopefully they stick with AFL, they have some cousins who play for Glebe so there is a bit of healthy competitive tension there.
Q: Now, the big question—who’s your footy team, and why?
I cheer cheered when I read this question! I’ve supported the Swannies since I took up footy and I became a member when I moved to Sydney. My whole family are now members too and although they’re not as passionate as I am, we love going to the footy (except Grand Finals).
Q: Quickfire round!
Flat White, Long Black, Latte, Skinny Cap, or Beer? Got to start the day with a flat white, but nothing like a refreshing Sydney craft brewed Pale Ale to wind down.
Bacon & Egg Roll, Sausage Roll, Salad Roll, or Meat Pie? Oh I cannot go past a bacon and egg roll, no sauce!
Q: How do you keep yourself fit these days?
Coaching two teams gets my steps up and out of season it is regular gym and jogging – a great way to clear the mind.
Q: Any final thoughts or words of encouragement for The Saints community to round out 2025 and getting ready for 2026?
For the kids and players, always have a footy. Regular kicking is a great way to improve your skills.
For parents and volunteers, keep involved, come to the amazing functions we put on and help where you can – look out for the Women in Sport lunch, end of season party, and the golf day. There are many ways to get involved and support our amazing club.
Go Saints!
