CHAIRMAN Glen Bartlett says the belief and positivity surrounding the club, leading up to its first elimination final clash against Geelong Cats at the MCG, has been infectious.

Speaking to Melbourne Media on Thursday, Bartlett said he was thrilled for all who love the red and blue to be back in the finals for the first time since 2006.

“We’re really excited, and really excited for our fans and for everyone involved – our players, coaches, supporters, sponsors, staff, volunteers and board,” he said.

“Everyone has worked so hard to really give the club this opportunity and we’re just embracing it and just can’t wait for it to start – one more sleep.

“The dark days are well and truly behind us. We’re looking ahead and it’s all about this week. Everyone I’ve come across who is a Melbourne supporter … is just that excited about Friday night and they can’t wait for it.”

Bartlett was proud of the hard work undertaken by everyone associated with the club.

“Clubs are made up of so many good people and our club’s made up of so many great people,” he said.

“Starting with the board, our number one thing was to really provide a stable environment – and a really good environment – for our players and coaches, so they could really concentrate on their role.

“I’m really proud of how we’ve done that over a long period of time now.”

Bartlett, who has been chairman since August 2013 and overseen the club’s rise, said “a lot of positive things” were happening at the club.

“There is a lot of work being done around the club, from exiting gaming, our facilities for the future, fundraising, commercial partnerships, sponsorships and a whole range of areas, including the development of our people. The whole club has worked so hard,” he said.

“Goody (Simon Goodwin), really now for the best part of four years, and his coaching group, have been sensational.

“The way this playing group works, and how professional they are, and how they just stand-up – it’s really exciting.”

Overall, Bartlett wanted to thank the club’s faithful for its support through thick and thin.

“I really want to thank our members and supporters, who have got right behind us and our sponsors that have been so loyal,” he said.

“I’d just say to everyone ‘just really enjoy this Friday night’.

“It’s a huge game, but I really appreciate all of the support for a long period of time now.”