Stynes’ involvement at the Club spans nearly thirty years, from his time as scholarship holder under the Irish Experiment, to Brownlow winner and four time Best and Fairest winner.
From the time that he made his first official address as Melbourne’s President on Sunday 29 June 2008, Stynes was set to make an impact in his new role. As Melbourne thrilled its way to a one point win against the Brisbane Lions, Stynes forecast a hands on, innovative presidency, with a personally selected board, and a battle to eradicate Melbourne’s debt.
Stynes wanted the Club to stand for something, and early meetings with AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou and AFL Commission Chairman Mike Fitzpatrick served to largely restore the respect held for the Melbourne Football Club. New CEO Cameron Schwab carried on his mission at an administrative level, with both working overtime to promote the Club across the football community. Immediate evidence came with the increase in membership, and the breaching of the long elusive 30,000 member mark.
At one stage, however, despite all the goodwill possible, the Club’s debt seemed insurmountable. It initially stood at $5 million, but after successive Debt Demolition campaigns in 2008 and 2009, supported by the Foundation Heroes group, and followed by stabilising efforts in 2010, the way was clear for building on a sound financial platform.
In other areas, the new board was also experiencing success, striking an agreement with the City of Casey for training facilities, completing the Football Department’s new headquarters at AAMI Park, and realigning with the MCC as a Section of its parent institution in April 2009.
These, of course, were just the headline acts, with many other initiatives making their mark. From Women of Melbourne activities to the Kinder Kick program, the Melbourne Football Club continued to reach out beyond the MCG boundaries to the world beyond.
Despite announcing in early July 2009 that he was facing a far more personal battle, Stynes continued as President. Diagnosed with cancer, he nonetheless continued to lead the way at Melbourne, promoting and advocating for the Club, with his board behind him all the way.
Vice President Don McLardy fulfilled a supporting role on most occasions, with former teammate Garry Lyon assisting with major decisions such as the appointment of new coach, Mark Neeld. Stynes, meanwhile, remained a constant presence, remaining at the helm of the Melbourne Football Club as President and legendary figure alike. He stood down as President at the 2011 AGM, with Don McLardy taking over the role.
