Melbourne's Round 1 clash against the GWS Giants will be the first annual "Jim's Game," a match to honour club legend Jim Stynes.

Taking place on St Patrick's Day eve, the day will play host to an array of Irish entertainment and celebrations that honour the Irish heritage of Stynes.

Stynes played 264 games for the Demons and has recently been elevated to legend status in the club's hall of fame.

The AFL champion was the 1991 Brownlow medallist, a two-time All-Australian (1991, 1993), an MVP recipient (1991) and four-time Melbourne best and fairest winner (1991, 1995, 1996, 1997).

Stynes also holds - currently - the most consecutive V/AFL games in history with 244.

Melbourne aims to raise donations on match day, which will all go to the Jim Stynes Foundation, a charity whose mission is to develop programs and initiatives that focus on inspiring young people to believe in themselves and thrive.

Melbourne Demons president Brad Green penned a letter to supporters, revealing his excitement for the tribute match.

"For the first time, we'll host Jim's Game โ€“ an annual fixture dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of the late Jim Stynes," he wrote.

"Having just been elevated to Legend status, Jim played 264 games for Melbourne and left a profound impact on the club and beyond.

"This match will be a tribute to his extraordinary contributions and a chance for all of us to reflect on his enduring influence, while raising funds for the Jim Stynes Foundation."

Stynes died in 2012 after a long battle with cancer.

The Demons legend also has a Community Leadership Award named after him which recognises players' contribution to the community and helping others, with the winner receiving $40,000 to be donated to a charity of their choosing.

Adelaide's Reilly O'Brien and Fremantle's Madi Scanlon were the 2024 recipients of the award, which dates back to 2012.

This year's Jim's Game will be the first of many, with the dedicated match forming part of the Demons' AFL fixture moving forward.

Melbourne fans are encouraged to don a touch of green for the special occasion.

The Demons will be looking to bounce back in 2025 after ending a disappointing 2024 campaign in 14th position.