DANIEL Cross has been nominated for this year’s Madden Medal.

The recently retired Demon and former Bulldog star was one of seven names announced on Tuesday.

The honour, which recognises the retiring player who has contributed the most to the game and the broader community, is being awarded this Friday, October 9 at the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins.

Players nominated for the Madden Medal this year are:

  • Chris Judd – Carlton
  • Dustin Fletcher – Essendon
  • Paul Chapman – Essendon
  • Luke McPharlin – Fremantle
  • Daniel Cross – Melbourne
  • Kane Cornes – Port Adelaide
  • Chris Newman – Richmond

AFL Players’ CEO Paul Marsh said the award recognises the investment players make in the game, not just on the field but off it, along with the steps they have taken to develop themselves professionally and personally.

“With so many outstanding players retiring each season, it’s important we take the opportunity to recognise the contribution they have made to the game, both on and off the field,” he said.

“Each of the 2015 Madden Medal nominees have had sensational playing careers, however it’s important we acknowledge the off-field effort involved in building a successful AFL career and celebrate these achievements.”

The key criteria taken into consideration in determining the Madden Medallist are football achievement, personal development and community spirit, and off-field engagement.

The award, named in honour of former champions Simon and Justin Madden, was first presented in 2007 and has been won by:

  • Glenn Archer (2007)
  • Robert Harvey (2008)
  • Michael O’Loughlin (2009)
  • Brett Kirk (2010)
  • Cameron Ling (2011)
  • Luke Power (2012)
  • Jude Bolton (2013)
  • Lenny Hayes (2014)

The winner will be decided by the board of the AFL Players’ Association and previous winners of the award.