The previous Club record of 33,219 members, set in 2002, was smashed earlier this season, with membership growing in all categories. Hawks supporters have got behind Alastair Clarkson’s side in record numbers, as they continue to play some of the most exciting football within the AFL.
Hawthorn President, Jeff Kennett, was delighted to confirm the news, with supporters continuing to get behind the Club.
"40,000 members is a wonderful achievement for the Club,” said Kennett.
“It is an all-time record, and an increase of almost 9,000 on last year. In particular a 40 percent increase in our membership in Tasmania.”
“Congratulations to all in our membership department for their efforts to date, knowing the cut off for membership is not until June 30. Thank you also to the coaches and players who are providing the inspiration for such spectacular membership growth,” said the President.
The Club continues to aggressively pursue its five-year business plan – five2fifty (2008-2012) – unveiled by the Hawthorn Board at the 2007 Annual General Meeting. The business plan is focused on enabling the Hawks to secure its 10th and successive premierships and to become the first Victorian AFL club to secure a membership base of over 50,000 members. The Club’s record membership and significant growth in the Tasmanian market continues to provide the stability that is needed for sustained on-field performance that can ultimately deliver premiership success.
Club President Jeff Kennett has already thrown down the challenge for 2009, for those members who are already onboard to help sign up their friends and family for next season.
“Next years target will be 5,000 more than our final figure for this year and it should be a target that each Hawthorn member is committed to help us achieve,” said Kennett.
“Again congratulations to all, it’s great knowing that our new members are enjoying the ride of their lives."
2008 has seen junior membership soar, with an increase of 30 percent in young Hawks joining the Club. In addition 10,000 new and re-engaged members have joined the Club this season, with a 90 percent increase in reserved seat holders.
The Club continues to find great support in Tasmania, with one in four Auskick participants barracking for the Hawks. The Club also enjoys a strong membership base in the Apple Isle, which makes up 10 percent of Hawthorn’s total membership.
To celebrate this milestone and the great support shown by its members in 2008, the Club is planning a Members Celebration day at the footy – with details to be posted on the hawthornfc.com.au in coming weeks.
