Essendon will use its blockbuster round one clash agaisnt Hawthorn to unveil a series of new initiatives and celebrate Our Comeback Story.

After the success of the march to the ‘G last year, Members and fans are encouraged to congregate at Birrarung Marr at 4pm before descending on the MCG in unison at 6pm.

Club Legend Kevin Sheedy and a number of former players, including premiership players, Paul Salmon, Terry Daniher and Dustin Fletcher will take part, as well as high profile supporters and administrators.

There will also be an interactive 360-degree camera activation for fans to take part in.

The Club will also be giving away 18,000 specially designed commemorative red and black t-shirts to members who attend the game. The commemorative t-shirt will feature the Comeback Story slogan. This is a special way of saying thanks for showing your continued support and for members to say 'I was there for the historic night'.

At each home game this season, the Club will celebrate a Comeback Hero – a former champion who overcame adversity to deliver many happy moments for the Essendon faithful. In round one the Comeback Hero is Paul Salmon. The two-time premiership player will sit down for a feature interview on the Essendon website, be celebrated on the big screen and present the match ball to the umpires at the start of the game.

Essendon is unveiling a new pre-game tradition inspired by Kevin Sheedy. The Bombers’ Legend is encouraging members and supporters to wave their scarves and jackets as the team runs out. This will be communicated during the week via the website, special email to members and on the big screen on match day.

There will also be special hype videos played in the moments before the game.

The experience of an Essendon home game is not to be missed this year, starting with the blockbuster against the Hawks.