LARA has started the search for a coach after Adrian McBean tonight announced his resignation.

McBean addressed the playing group at training after telling president Gerard Evans on Wednesday night he was burnt out and unable to coach on next year.

The Cats are shattered to lose their well-regarded coach, having been deep in negotiations for the past six weeks about a contract extension for next year

But McBean, who had agonised over the decision for weeks, told club officials the commute from Melbourne four times a week had taken its toll.

Aside from training and matches, he also runs a Wednesday night review session for players and coaches.

Evans said the Cats would target the best available coach.

MORE GFL: Bike track to be used for fans at West Oval

Read the full text of this story in Friday’s Addy or in our digital print edition