Jason Holmes

Jason Holmes (born October 28, 1989) is a former professional American-born Australian rules footballer who played for the St Kilda Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). He was the first born and raised American to ever play AFL.

Holmes was born in Chicago to an African American father and White American mother. He played basketball, soccer, baseball, American football and golf throughout his youth. His father, Kevin, played basketball professionally in Europe and South America. His brother, Andre, plays American football professionally for the Denver Broncos in the National Football League.

Holmes played college basketball for Mississippi Valley State and Morehead State from 2009 to 2013. He gained a bachelor's degree in universal studies upon graduation. While in his senior year, Holmes was invited to participate in the Australian Football League's 2013 US Draft Combine. He was subsequently signed as an international rookie by the St Kilda Football Club in October 2013.

Holmes first played Australian rules football for St Kilda's developmental team, Sandringham, in the Victorian Football League (VFL). On August 22, 2015, he became the first born and raised American to debut in the AFL. Holmes lined up at the position of ruck and his debut included a game-high 34 hit outs in St Kilda's 97-all draw with Geelong. He played the final three games of the home and away season. He was delisted at the conclusion of the 2017 season.

Holmes is one of five children. He has two brothers; his older brother, Andre Holmes, is a wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills. His younger brother, Mark, plays European basketball for BC Winterthur. He also has two younger sisters (unknown names).