MELBOURNE has broken its all-time membership record, surpassing 55,000 members for the first time in its rich history.

The Demons reached the important milestone on Friday morning, topping last year’s final tally of 54,454.

The occasion follows a successful 2021 AFL season, which culminated in Melbourne’s drought-breaking premiership victory, and comes ahead of the Demons’ AFLW Finals Series.

Acknowledging the significant tally, CEO Gary Pert thanked all those who have supported the club and signed up to be part of 2022.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank our existing members for their continued loyalty, and for our new members, their renewed belief,” Pert said.

“This significant achievement is a testament to the trust they have of not only our players, coaches and staff, but of our vision as a club.

“After two challenging years, navigating our way through the COVID-19 pandemic, we are so proud to be where we are today – 55,000 members strong and having re-ignited the Demon Spirit.”

The historic milestone arrives after Melbourne registered a pre-Round 1 record a fortnight ago, with 51,513 members getting on board ahead of the AFL season-opener.

It also accompanies significant growth among Melbourne’s AFLW supporter base, which saw the club tick over 2,000 members for the first time earlier this year.

As the club prepares to add to its history this weekend, hosting an AFLW Preliminary Final at the MCG, Pert urged all supporters to join the ride.

“Today is a really exciting day for our club, and one we want to build on in the coming months,” Pert said.

“We love nothing more than having our members back at the footy, filling the stands and grounds with red and blue. This weekend, we get that opportunity at our spiritual home, twice.

“We encourage our members to get along to games whenever possible, and welcome our supporters to sign up and be part of our journey in 2022.”

Share in Melbourne’s record-breaking year by becoming a member today. A wide variety of membership packages are available, for purchase until July 31.