Essendon will recognise the contribution of its members with a special giveaway at the round one blockbuster against Hawthorn.

The Club will distribute 18,000 commemorative t-shirts to its reserved seat members ahead of the clash with the Hawks.

"We want to recognise and thank our members for their unwavering loyalty and passion over the last few years," Chief Marketing Officer Justin Rodski said.

"Our comeback game is a significant milestone for our Club, our players and our members as we launch into a new and exciting era.

"Essendon members will be able to proudly say that they were a part of the Comeback Story.

"We think it will be a great spectacle with members wearing the t-shirts on the night in our member bays turning the MCG into a sea of red and black.”

The t-shirts will be placed on the seats of reserved seat members.

Sizes range from small to extra large and members are encouraged to swap with those around them to find their appropriate size.

T-shirts are only available to those attending the game and as there is a limited supply not all general admission members will receive a t-shirt.

AFL and MCC members won’t receive a t-shirt unless they also have a reserved seat membership.

MCG ushers will be on hand if assistance is required and members are encouraged to partake in the giveaway in a respectful manner.