In a significant development for the Melbourne Demons, veteran defender Steven May was conspicuously absent from the club's training session on Wednesday morning, just six weeks before the start of the AFL season. The 2021 premiership player, who is set to become a restricted free agent at the end of this season, has been a key figure in recent trade discussions but remains with the Demons for now.
Legal Troubles and On-Field Challenges
Off the field, May is embroiled in a legal battle alongside Richmond midfielder Dion Prestia, stemming from a late-2024 brawl in Sorrento on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula. The pair are fighting criminal charges related to the incident and recently requested the charges be withdrawn, asserting they were not present at the scene. They are scheduled to appear again at Frankston Magistrates Court on February 20, adding a layer of uncertainty to May's preparations for the upcoming season.
A Season of Mixed Fortunes
On the field, the 34-year-old defender played 16 senior games last year, bringing his career total to 251 matches. However, his season was marked by challenges, including a three-match suspension for a high bump and a notable performance where Hawthorn veteran Jack Gunston kicked seven goals against him. This inconsistency has raised questions about his role as the Demons navigate a period of major transition.
Demons in Transition
The Melbourne Demons are undergoing significant changes, with coach Simon Goodwin being sacked last year and Steven King stepping into his first senior coaching role. Additionally, the club has seen key players depart, including star onballers Christian Petracca, who moved to the Gold Coast, and Clayton Oliver, who joined GWS after last season. May's absence from training and his pending free agency status further highlight the evolving dynamics within the team.
The Demons have been contacted for comment regarding May's absence, but no official statement has been released yet. As the AFL season approaches, all eyes will be on how this situation unfolds, both in terms of May's legal proceedings and his impact on the field for Melbourne.
