IT HAS been a turbulent year for Essendon, but it can be said with absolute conviction that Bomber fans have rallied behind their club. 

The AFL released the final club membership figures for 2013 on Thursday and they revealed that Essendon recorded the biggest raw increase in membership, from 47,708 in 2012 to 56,173, an increase of 8465. 

The combined AFL club membership figure for 2013 is 756,717, the highest recorded in the game's history and an increase of 6.94 per cent on last year. 

Figures reveal that 11 of the 18 clubs recorded all-time membership records and that only two clubs – St Kilda and Melbourne – registered lower membership figures in 2013 than last year. 

Greater Western Sydney recorded the greatest increase in percentage terms, with 12,681 members representing a 23.8 per cent increase on last year. 

The Sydney Swans also capitalised on last year's premiership win with a 21.71 per cent increase to 36,358. 

Collingwood, with an AFL record 78,427, remains the largest-supported club in the competition, followed by Hawthorn (63,353), Richmond (60,321) and West Coast (58,501). 

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou said membership remained the backbone of the game. 

"We have seen a substantial rise in membership across the competition with many clubs setting new benchmarks - this is testament to the value clubs place on building membership of the game and engaging supporters. 

"Importantly, significant growth has been recorded across the board, with the greatest increases coming from our youngest clubs as well some of our most established clubs," he said.