THE Carlton Football Club is today delighted to announce it has broken its all-time membership record — eight days before the start of the 2019 AFL season.

Today, history was created as the Club surpassed its previous record of 56,005 members in a true sign of the incredible belief, support and loyalty of the Carlton faithful.

Almost 10,000 new Bluebaggers have signed up as Carlton members for the first time in 2019. This wave of momentum now sees the Blues on track to pass their target of 60,000 members for the first time in the Club’s history.

Carlton CEO Cain Liddle thanked all Carlton members who have committed to be part of the journey this season.

“We exist for our members and to have that support reach record numbers today gives us all the motivation we need to take our football club back to where it needs to be,” Liddle said.

“We are more than 10,000 members up on the same time last year. That confirms for us the belief that our supporters have in the direction we are heading. Our members want to be part of that and we want them right there with us on this exciting journey.

“It’s important our members know how much they mean to us and we genuinely thank each and every single one them who has committed to the Club this year. Their commitment to our long-term plan is greatly appreciated.

“Our entire Club - players, coaches, staff and especially our members - will be together every step of the way this season, starting next Thursday night when we hope to see the MCG painted navy blue as we open our season against the Tigers.”