By breaking its all-time membership record, Collingwood also broke the record for most members signed by a Victorian club in a single season, which the Magpies set in 2004 with 41,256.
Collingwood president Eddie McGuire praised the magnificent Magpie supporter base after announcing the membership record at his President’s Lunch on Friday.
“This is a historic day for the Collingwood Football Club and is testament to the phenomenal passion, loyalty and commitment of our members and supporters.
“On behalf of everyone at the club we would like to thank all those who have either signed up for the first time or renewed their membership, and ensured Collingwood remains the biggest and most famous sporting club in the country.”
Collingwood CEO Gary Pert was waiting at the Collingwood membership tent outside gate one at the MCG on Friday and presented John Wharf, a long-time Collingwood supporter, with a signed guernsey for being the 41,257th member to sign up in 2008 just after midday.
“It was highly appropriate that on the same day we hosted the biggest home-and-away match of the season – the ANZAC Day blockbuster against Essendon – we broke our all-time membership record and set a new record for largest membership of any Victorian club.
“Thank you to all those Collingwood supporters who have signed up in 2008 and ensured our club can continue to prosper and set industry benchmarks.
“We must also stress that membership still represents tremendous value in 2008, with Collingwood still to play eight home matches in 2008 including MCG blockbusters against Geelong, Carlton, Hawthorn and St Kilda.”
Collingwood’s final membership figure in 2007 was 38,790.
To join up as a member Magpie fans can call 1800 467 437 (1800 GO PIES) or BUY ONLINE.
