The big Bulgarian has had his share of ups and downs during his time at Wangaratta, often finding himself squeezed out of the starting lineup because of the restriction of two overseas players per team.

But since gaining full playing status this year, the classy centre back has become a crucial member of the Devils' defence.

Ivanov rated Wangaratta's 4-0 victory in the cup final against arch rivals Myrtleford as the highlight so far.

"This probably is (more special) because we won the league and the grand final," Ivanov said.

"I think in the first 10-15 minutes we were a little bit nervous, but after that we settled and played better, even with 10 players."

Ivanov lost his fellow centre back Nikola Bukvic early in the first half after he was shown a second yellow card, but there was no sense of panic.

"Because Riley (Hamilton) can play as a defender as well, I was sure he could cover for Nikola (Bukvic)," Ivanov said

"We needed to take one striker back to play as a midfielder and it was hard because they (Myrtleford) are a good team."

He also rated Star Player and man of the match, Adam Burchell, as the best visa player the league has seen in two decades, after the classy Englishman's match-winning display.

"We're lucky to have him," Ivanov added.

The Devils also couldn't have achieved the ultimate success without the inclusion of striker Andrew Barisic.

"We said before the game, it doesn't matter which league (you're playing in), you're going to remember these moments," Barisic said.

"It was probably the two best teams playing and obviously with the rivalry, it's a great atmosphere.

"I think we proved not only through the season and today with 10 men, that we did quite a great job.

"To be honest, I don't think today was even our best game.

"It was quite scrappy and we didn't hold the ball. Even up front we couldn't get control of the ball and I think we were a bit nervous.

"As we said, it didn't need to be pretty to win the game, as long we won it."

Barisic has proven to be an asset to the Devils on and off the field.

"You get a lot of times in the bigger leagues where you're screaming at each other, but I think in these kind of leagues you've got to help them (the younger players)," the former A-League striker said.

"Not only myself, but the other boys in the team help the young boys do that.

"You can see the young boys coming through, they're all local boys and they're doing really, really well."