A dozen GIANTS youngsters were welcomed back to preseason training at the WestConnex Centre on Monday as the preparations for the 2018 season begun. 

After eight weeks away from the club, the players got straight to work with a three kilometre time trial and skills session. 

Second year midfielder Tim Taranto was a standout in the time trial, crossing the finish line first.

“I was pretty pumped to get started and get back into it,” said Taranto. 

“It’s a pretty dreadful day but once you get over the 3Ks, it’s just good to be around the boys again and I’m glad it’s over.

“A fair few boys looked in really good shape.

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“Pez (Harry Perryman) looked like he’s trimmed down a little bit and looked really good, Zac Sproule and Matt Flynn are looking good so there are a few boys who’ve obviously put in the work over the break.”

Taranto finished in front of forward Daniel Lloyd and rookie Jake Stein with midfielder Will Setterfield and new recruit Lachie Keeffe rounding out the top five.

It was the first session for former Magpie Keeffee who crossed to the GIANTS as a delisted free agent earlier this month.

The GIANTS will welcome another batch of new players this Friday when the NAB AFL Draft is held at the Sydney Showgrounds.

The rest of the GIANTS’ AFL players return to training on Monday, 4^th December.