A REINVIGORATED Nathan Brown says his move to St Kilda was the "kick up the bum" his career needed.

The 28-year-old joined St Kilda as a free agent in October last year after Collingwood chose not to match the offer for the premiership defender.

While Brown is still adjusting to his new home, he says he has no regrets with the decision to walk out on the Magpies.

"A lot of people were surprised by the move," Brown told RSN radio.

"But I think for me it was the right time. Being somewhere for 11 years, you get used to something and get into a habit, but the change when I came across, I was like a young player again.

"It's given me the kick up the bum I needed at this time in my career to go again, elevate again, and get something more out of my career in terms of football.

"I don’t regret the decision at all, the club has been very welcoming to me so I'm very happy with where I am."

The Saints' young crop of talent has played a big part in re-energising Brown.

The defender, was one of three recruits St Kilda acquired during last year's trade period, with midfielders Jack Steele and Koby Stevens also joining the club.

Meanwhile, key defender Jake Carlisle will make his long-awaited debut for the Saints after serving a 12-month ban.

The Saints are looking to build on what was a fairly successful 2016.

The club finished ninth, five places up from 2015, with 12 wins, but consistency has been the focus as the Saints push for a finals berth.

"There's been a particular focus on what St Kilda's best footy is, which is great, and what St Kilda's worst footy is, because there is still a big gap between that," Brown said.

"So we just need to find that consistency this year and we truly believe that will put us in good stead for finals."

St Kilda hosts Port Adelaide at Etihad Stadium in its first JLT Community Series match on February 23.