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Melbourne Village Today
By the People, for the People
Melbourne Quickly Finds Steven May Replacement After Retirement
The Demons sign forward Paddy Cross from their VFL affiliate Casey ahead of the SSP deadline.
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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Melbourne has moved swiftly to fill the void left by the shock retirement of veteran defender Steven May by signing 23-year-old forward Paddy Cross from their VFL affiliate Casey. Cross, who has impressed during the pre-season, will now get his chance with the Demons after May's sudden retirement on the eve of the season.
Why it matters
May's retirement was unexpected, leaving a significant hole in Melbourne's backline. The quick signing of Cross demonstrates the club's proactive approach to addressing this roster need and ensuring they have the necessary depth to compete this season.
The details
Cross has spent the last three seasons with Casey, the Demons' VFL affiliate, booting a combined 26 goals across 28 games. In 2025, he impressed for Casey as the side made the VFL semi-finals, kicking 24 goals from 18 games, including a four-goal performance in the elimination final against Williamstown. Cross had been training with Melbourne's senior squad throughout the pre-season.
- May announced his retirement on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
- Melbourne signed Cross ahead of the SSP (Supplementary Selection Period) deadline on March 2, 2026.
The players
Paddy Cross
A 23-year-old forward who has spent the last three seasons with Melbourne's VFL affiliate Casey, impressing with his goal-scoring ability and earning a spot on the Demons' senior list.
Steven May
A veteran defender who recently retired from the AFL, leaving a significant hole in Melbourne's backline that the club has moved quickly to fill with the signing of Paddy Cross.
What they’re saying
“Melbourne has signed Casey Demons forward Paddy Cross ahead of the SSP deadline today. The 23yo has trained with Steven King's squad across the pre-season and now gets his chance after Steven May's retirement”
— Josh Gabelich, AFL.com.au reporter (AFL.com.au)
What’s next
Cross will now have the opportunity to make his AFL debut for Melbourne in the upcoming season, as the club looks to fill the void left by May's retirement.
The takeaway
Melbourne's quick action to sign Paddy Cross demonstrates the club's proactive approach to addressing roster needs and maintaining depth, even in the face of unexpected player retirements. This move highlights the importance of strong player development and scouting programs within AFL clubs.
