Essendon Football Club has achieved an unprecedented milestone, passing 55,000 members for the first time in the club’s history.

The membership tally has eclipsed the club's previous record of 50,271 set in 2011 and now sits 7,000 members ahead of the same time last year.

Essendon Chairman David Evans acknowledged the club's loyal and passionate members for their continued support in 2013.

“It is a significant achievement for the club to reach this record-breaking milestone and we extend our sincerest appreciation to each of our 55,000 members,” Evans said.

“We have received unwavering support this year from our members – our members are the heart and soul of our football club and it means a lot to our players to have such a strong membership base supporting the team each week."

Since the new coaching panel was appointed in 2010, key membership numbers as follows:
50,271 (2011)
47,708 (2012)
55,000 (2013)

To celebrate the record-breaking milestone, the club is offering a member-exclusive merchandise offer. Click here for more details.

Essendon is encouraging supporters to join the red and black army for 2013. Click here to purchase your membership.