Ahead of Member Thank You Round, Essendon asked its members to share their origin stories with how they fell in love with the mighty red and black.

See the best entries below.

Member reflections

I have been a continuous EFC member for 60 years, since I was 11. My father was a fervent Essendon supporter and member. My Dad owned a trucking company that required regular servicing on Saturday morning. I would assist in the clean up and anything to assist in completion. For that, my Dad would buy me a membership ticket which I treasured. Luckily, I met a beautiful girl who was also a mad Dons supporter. BLISS!! 50 years later, I still cannot express how lucky to have had this joint connection for the Dons. After going to all Premierships since 1965, I now go with my three children, their partners and five grandchildren. I feel part of the Essendon family and very proud to support the red and the black. Go Dons!!
- Geoffrey Keogh 

I loved this year watching the boys but my favourite game was taking my grandson Harry to his first game. He just loved it when we scored a goal and the lights were flashing around the stadium. Here's to many years of taking him to see my beloved Bombers!
- Sue Pritchard

My nephew Denim and I ran into Mason Redman outside GMHBA Stadium. I said to my nephew to get an autograph or a photo (to not take up too much time) so he choose to get his footy signed. Redman then encouraged him to get a photo as well. Made my nephew's day and probably his year. Less than two weeks later, Redman signed a five year deal and we both couldn't be happier.
- Jasmine Hoare

Late in the 1970's, I was six years old. Essendon and Collingwood came to Warracknabeal to play a pre-season practice match at Anzac Park. The players came by bus and stayed overnight in a hotel. My Dad took me down to their bus as they were leaving for an autograph and Simon Madden picked me up and took me up and down the Essendon player bus to get autographs. I met players like Tim Watson, Ken Fletcher, Roger Merrett and Terry Daniher. That was it for me, Bomber supporter for life!
- Matt Pittwood

A few years ago I met the love of my life. I didn't know a single thing about football and took no interest in it, I didn't even know the rules. But to her it was everything, she knows everything about football, everything about the Bombers and her investment in the sport is what got me into the game. Now it's my life! I watch every single game, attend every game I can and even play for a local women's team. Being able to watch the Bombers grow as a team brings me such genuine pride as a supporter. Without her, I wouldn't be the proud Essendon supporter I am today. I'm glad I met her and so glad she roped me into supporting this amazing club. Up the Dons!
- Chelsea Guymer

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