The Greater Western Sydney GIANTS have announced their 34-man squad for Saturday's opening NAB Cup clash against Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs.

Twelve GIANTS will make their NAB Cup debut at Blacktown International Sportspark.

AFL veteran James McDonald says the young guns at the Greater Western Sydney GIANTS have given the club an air of excitement.

The young playing group will face two of the biggest clubs in the league on Saturday night when they tackle Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs in Round 1 of the 2012 pre season competition.

“We've got a lot of young players and their attitude has been sensational,” said McDonald.

“For me coming from an established to a new start up club, to have so many young players come in has been pretty interesting.

“They create a lot of enthusiasm and energy.”

McDonald, who played over 250 games for the Melbourne Football Club, says the GIANTS are ready for the challenges of the AFL.

“It's been exciting to be involved in a club that's starting up and watching it all come together,” said McDonald.

“At the end of the day, clubs are just made up of people who make the team come together.

“There is a lot of banter around and everyone is trying to get fit - it's not all that different to any other footy club to be honest.”

After a year away from the AFL as aMelbourne based player mentor for the GIANTS, McDonald said that he is feeling fresh and hasn’t missed a beat in his pre season training campaign.

“I've had a bit of a gap year. I'm refreshed mentally and physically,” he said.

“There are a few challenges to see if I'm up to it but I'll soon find out. So far it's been great, I've rally enjoyed the pre season.”

The full GIANTS squad is: