Matthew Pavlich’s influence on Fremantle won’t be fully appreciated until after the club’s games record player has left, says Ross Lyon.

“He leaves really deep footprints and in the end we all pass through and they all get blown away over time, but I’m sure his are pretty deep and they’ll last a long time,” Lyon said.

“I think it will hit everyone when he’s gone.

“He’s been an integral part of this club and always will be.”

Lyon said Pavlich sets a great example to the rest of the club.

“The way he has competed and held himself together and led has been superb and that speaks volumes for him,” Lyon said.

“I hold him in the highest regard possible.”

Neale record beckons as Pavlich goal looms

Ahead of Pavlich’s final game Fremantle recalled some experienced campaigners to the squad, with young defender Sam Collins missing out as Zac Dawson was recalled.

Lyon said the young back had performed well throughout the season.

“It’s a big step playing on the big key forwards under siege,” Lyon said.

“It’s not like his season ends, he get’s to gather himself.

“But he needs to apply some of the lessons he learnt, at a lesser level, so he feels a bit better about himself and finishes off strongly.”

Life after football

Coming off the back of a disappointing season, Lyon said the club was focused on rebuilding.

“We thought we could mount a campaign but clearly haven’t,” he said.

“We understand we’re rebuilding, so that’s on the agenda and I understand I have a timeframe.”

Lyon said the first “undiluted” draft since the inception of Gold Coast and GWS presents a good opportunity for the club.

“Over the last few years, it’s been really difficult,” he said.

“All the top kids have really gone to GWS and Gold Coast for the last six years, so it’s probably not a bad time to be starting to (rebuild).

“It allows you to get the talent you need through and grow them into really good players.”

Lyon said he was looking forward to the challenge of rebuilding the team.

“History tells you it’s going to take some time, but I’m looking forward to the opportunity,” he said.