Although conceding McMillan’s decision to retire was a massive blow, he said the club would turn to its youngsters rather than chase a big name recruit in a bid to keep pace with Albury and Lavington.

McMillan has cited work and family as the reasons for his decision.

“‘Motor’ (McMillan) said he couldn’t commit 100 per cent with all that he has going on and the club understands that completely,” Fevola said yesterday.

“He’s been a great servant of the club. He was very honest and didn’t want to keep a kid out of a game.

“The bloke has been super for us.”

McMillan, who played in Yarrawonga’s 2006, 2012 and 2013 premierships in a stellar 174-match career, has been courted heavily by the Matt Shannon-coached Strathmerton.

It is believed key forward Brad O’Connor is also on the Picola and District league club’s radar.

Fevola said Yarrawonga had several options to replace McMillan in their line-up.

“‘Barnesy’ (Drew Barnes) and I are really excited about the year ahead,” he said.

“I watch the kids at training and think ‘how good are these guys’.

“Damon Symes is an option and so is Beau Seymour or Ricky Barnes.

“Ricky has bulked right up over the off-season.

“He looks like Popeye after eating his spinach.

“I think we will surprise a few teams.

“I’m not being cocky but if we make the finals no one will want to play us.”

McMillan joined Yarrawonga from Strathmerton in 2003 and, besides a stint with SANFL club West Adelaide in 2006 and two years in Cairns in 2008 and 2009, has been a stand-out performer at J.C. Lowe Oval.

His best season was 2012 when he won the club’s best and fairest.