In a blow for the Saints on the eve of the season, the two-time best and fairest winner will play in the Goulburn Valley league this year after moving to Shepparton for work.

Chapman, 27, admitted he left McNamara Reserve with a heavy heart but said it was time his family came first.

Chapman and his wife Erin are expecting twins mid-year.

“It’s got nothing to do with football,” Chapman said.

“I wanted to play at Myrtleford this year.

“But family comes first.

“Footy looks like it might have to start taking a bit more of a back seat.”

Chapman will line up for his new club at John Flower Oval, of all places, this afternoon.

The Swans are taking on Wodonga in a practice match.

The much-loved Myrtleford midfielder was a pillar of loyalty during the Saints’ darkest era.

He was one of just two players to play in all 62 of Myrtleford’s consecutive losses during its infamous streak from 2007 to 2011.

Chapman won back-to-back best and fairest awards in 2008 and 2009.