Melbourne’s 2025 AFL season-opener is set to be full of Irish flair, with the Demons to host the inaugural Jim’s Game on Sunday 16 March at the MCG.
The celebratory match day will recognise the life and legacy of club great Jim Stynes, who played 264 games in the red and blue, while raising funds for the foundation named in his honour.
The Round 1 event will see the Dees paint the town green, with Irish games, traditions and entertainment to take over the hallowed turf and its surrounds. More exciting activity will be revealed in the lead-up to the day.
All donations raised from Jim’s Game will go directly to the Jim Stynes Foundation, which was first created in 2015 to continue developing programs and initiatives that focus on inspiring young people to believe in themselves and thrive.
In partnership with Melbourne since 2023, the Foundation strives to have impact on youth in three core areas: leadership, mental health and programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
This year’s fundraising efforts will support the Atyenhenge Atherre Aboriginal Corporation (AAAC) in maintaining the grassed oval, known as the 'MCG of the Desert’, in Santa Teresa/Ltyentye Apurte, as well as the Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award.
As it grows, the Foundation will look to further support its community partners in achieving its mission, while continuing to carry on Stynes’ legacy.
This year’s Jim’s Game will be the first of many, with the dedicated match to form part of the Demons’ AFL fixture moving forward.
Dees fans are encouraged to don a touch of green for the special occasion, which will be held on the eve of St Patrick’s Day.
