TOM McGrath remains confident the Albury dynasty won't come crashing down next season.
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The second-placed Tigers missed the grand final for the first time in a decade after suffering an inglorious straight sets exit from the finals series.
Their Achilles heel proved to be an undersized backline after the departure of Michael Thompson left a gaping hole in the Tigers defence.
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Despite Albury winning seven of the past 11 flags, it boasts one of the lowest player points totals in the competition.
Only reigning best and fairest Jake Gaynor (3) and Dean Heta (4) attracted more than one point for the Tigers in the side that lost the first semi-final to Myrtleford.
The Tigers used 26 out of a possible 38 points and could easily reload and accommodate up to three high-profile recruits for next year.
McGrath, who will co-coach again next season, said a tall defender was on top of the recruiting wish list.
"It's no secret we need another tall defender," McGrath said.
"The problem is most clubs are looking for similar types of players that we are and they are hard to find.
"We only had two players that attracted points in our last final, so that is not an issue.
"Lachie Taylor-Nugent missed that final and will be worth four points next season.
"So we have got plenty of points up our sleeve to find a big fella of some description."
McGrath said Joel Mackie was the only confirmed departure from the Sportsground after signing as coach of Osborne.
Tiger stars Dean Polo, Brayden O'Hara and Shaun Daly have recommitted.
"I'm confident we will retain the majority of our list," McGrath said.
"Polo, O'Hara and Daly have re-signed.
"Daniel Cross is doubtful while Chris Hyde and Luke Packer are weighing up their playing futures."
Albury president, Stuart Hodgson, paid tribute to the contribution of Mackie during its decade of dominance.
"Joel has been a great servant of our footy club," Hodgson said.
"He goes with our blessing and has given us 11 years of outstanding football.
"Joel's record speaks for itself and we wish him all the best.
"You can't keep playing in the O&M forever and coaching in the bush is the next logical step for him."
