It’s a fortnight since Carlton opened its membership account for 2015 and the tally has just ticked over 1100. The Blues will be aiming to top 50,000 members next season – but Carlton’s new CEO says while membership is vital, the number itself shouldn’t be the focus.

Instead, new Blues chief Steven Trigg says his focus for next season will be re-engaging with supporters in a meaningful way.

“Membership is really important there’s no doubt about that – it is the lifeblood of the Club,” Trigg said.

“But I’ve this view that across the competition we’ve got really hung up about the membership number, just as a raw number, and yes we want Carlton’s to be higher – obviously.

“(But) by and large the fixture gives us an opportunity to get people to the games, and instead of being hung up on the membership number, I’m really keen for us to have an absolute number one priority of driving attendance, because that’s the time we can best engage with Carlton supporters.”

The AFL unveiled its 2015 fixture yesterday and Carlton’s family-friendly draw has been met with enthusiasm. Trigg says he wants to seize on the favourable fixture and create an overall greater match-day experience.

“The fixture gives us an opportunity to do that, and so a lot of our impetus, a lot of our emphasis, is going to be on “come on, get along to the game,’” he said.

“When we get there, hopefully on field we can put on a decent show, but around what we do there I would like us to go up through the gears and make it a much better experience once you’re there.”

To be part of Carlton’s journey in 2015 sign up for Carlton membership today. Call 1300 CARLTON or visit membership.carltonfc.com.au