Essendon Chief Executive Officer Xavier Campbell has called on the Bomber family to ‘build our army’.

Campbell was speaking in front of more than 500 supporters at the Club’s official Season Launch.

More than 55,000 people have signed on as members for this season and the Club is on track to break its membership record.

“Everyone has shown unwavering passion and loyalty to our Club and our players,” Campbell said.

“The exciting challenge for all of us now is to bring back an Essendon person who didn’t attend a game last season. Engage someone you know who is not a member and get them to sign up.

“Let’s build our army.

“Let’s remind them just how good it feels to be at the footy again and remind them about what it means to be part of the Essendon family.

“Our future is exciting, let’s enjoy sharing the journey together.”

The Bombers open their season with a blockbuster clash against Hawthorn at the MCG on Saturday March 25^th.

Campbell said the game shapes as a symbolic moment for the Club.

“Our membership continues to track at record pace, and we are hopeful of reaching 60,000 members by round one,” he said.

“This would be a phenomenal achievement. But not surprising when you consider we have the most resilient and passionate fans in the country.

“We have witnessed the [playing] group’s hard work and dedication over the summer and we are excited about putting it to the test against Hawthorn in Round One at the MCG on March 25.

“Round One will be a symbolic night for our Football Club.

“We expect 75,000 people in attendance, perhaps even more. 

“It will mark the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in Our Comeback Story.”