A number of players tried their luck in the big time, The Melbourne League. Those that did are:
1919: Syd Hall, Geelong (later represented Victoria as inter state winger)
1924: George Robinson, Richmond
1928: George Grinter, Richmond
1930: Hop Collins, Richmond, later Camberwell
1932: Matt Carland, Essendon
1946: Frank Bourke, Richmond
1963: Charlie Stewart, Footscray
1963: Wes Smith, Hawthorn
1965: Noel Halden, Footscray
1966: Francis Bourke, Richmond