Jim Stynes resigned as Melbourne president on the same day the AFL great had another operation in his fight against cancer yesterday.
The 45-year-old was absent from the club's annual general meeting last night, where his resignation was made official.
The packed room at the MCG gave the 1991 Brownlow medallist and four-time Demons best and fairest a standing ovation after vice-president Don McLardy confirmed widespread speculation that Stynes would stand down.
Stynes became club president in 2008 and was diagnosed with cancer the following year.
He has now endured more than 20 operations to remove tumours.
McLardy, who will take over as president, read out a statement from Stynes.
''As Melbourne enters what promises to be an exciting new season and hopefully an exciting new era, I see this as an opportune time to step down as Melbourne president,'' Stynes said.
''It will give the football club the best chance to be 100 per cent prepared for round one and it will give me the time to fully focus on my health and my family.
''I'm extremely proud of what the board has managed to achieve since I took on the presidency in June, 2008 - particularly in bringing a greater sense of unity and purpose to our football club.
''I feel confident that Don McLardy and the board will continue that work.''
Stynes also backed McLardy to be his successor and promised he would attend Melbourne's round one match this season.
Stynes told McLardy of his decision to stand down on Tuesday night, with McLardy saying the Irishman had made ''an immeasurable contribution'' to the club.
The ruckman played 264 games for Melbourne, including an AFL record of 244 in succession.
He then took over as president in 2008 when the club was in a dire financial position.
''Jim's remarkable leadership skills and courage under immense pressure have seen our club become united,'' McLardy said.
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