STEVEN May will notch up his 250th AFL match this weekend, marking a significant chapter in a career that began far from the bright lights of the MCG.
Speaking ahead of the milestone, the Darwin-born defender admitted he felt a few nerves at training this week, eager to get through without a setback after a few close calls in recent seasons.
“Coming from Darwin - a little place called Palmerston - I dreamed of playing AFL, but didn’t think it was possible,” May said.
“As a kid I just wanted to play one game and go back home and say I’d done it. To be playing 250 now is surreal.”
From Suns Foundation to Dees Leader
May began his career at the Gold Coast Suns, joining the inaugural list and helping to build a new club from the ground up.
“It was an unreal experience starting a new franchise,” he reflected.
“We were a young team, trying to grow the game on the Gold Coast. We faced a lot of big defeats early on, but that adversity toughened me up and built resilience.”
May’s leadership shone through during his time at the Suns, serving as captain and later vice-captain alongside Gary Ablett Jr. - an experience he says shaped the player and leader he became at Melbourne.
The Toughest Opponents
Across 15 seasons, May has faced some of the game’s best forwards. He recalls Nick Riewoldt’s unmatched endurance, Buddy Franklin’s aura and game-changing ability, and West Coast’s Josh Kennedy - his toughest match-up.
“I just couldn’t get him,” May laughed. “He was quick, strong, and could mark and kick goals from anywhere.”
Now, he says it’s the next generation - the King brothers, Sam Darcy and other towering forwards - who will test Melbourne’s young defenders for the next decade.
A Bond in the Backline
One of May’s strongest connections in football has been with fellow defender Jake Lever.
“We’re very different players and people, but we get along so well,” he said.
“I’ve been the older brother figure, but he’s taught me a lot - especially as he heads into fatherhood with his third child on the way.”
A Special Moment with Family
Adding to the occasion on Saturday will be a run through the banner with his young daughter, Millie.
“She’s nearly one, so she’s got no idea what’s going on, but it’s something I will be extremely proud of, and something hopefully she’s proud of as she gets older,” May said.
As May prepares to run out for his 250th match, the milestone is more than just a number - it’s a testament to resilience, leadership and a career defined by competing with the best.
