After an injury-disrupted 2020 season, Tim Taranto has returned to the club in fit, and fast, form.

Returning to the club for a two-week training block before Christmas, Taranto recorded the fastest finish time in the renowned 2km time trial. 

The 22-year-old, when speaking about the time trial, said he just felt good. 

“Some days you feel good and some days you don’t,” said Taranto.

“I just gave it everything and did alright, so happy with that.”

The pre-Christmas training period is usually for the first to fourth year players, but Taranto - who enters his fifth year with the club - was eager to return early.

“After 10 weeks off, I was keen to get back for a few sessions,” he said. 

“We’ll have another few weeks off over Christmas and then back into it in January and then it will all come around pretty quick after that I reckon.”

The 2019 Kevin Sheedy Medallist played 11 games for the GIANTS in 2020 following an injury to his shoulder during a pre-season match in February.

“2020 was a strange year and a disappointing year for a lot of us, but everyone was keen to get out there today and trained really well,” Taranto said.

“All the boys ran exceptionally well; they’ve returned in good nick, so that’s a good start.

“We won't look too far ahead with the season, just try and get a good summer under the belt and then yeah, excited to see how we go.” 

Despite a few familiar names departing following the end of 2020, the key midfielder said he has full confidence in the club's list.

“It’s happened (player departures) for a number of years now, but we’ve got some really good guys that are coming through and the club’s done well to bring in some exciting and experienced players as well,” said Taranto. 

“Some of the younger guys will probably get the opportunity to have a run as well – they’ve been good every time they’ve stepped in and played, but now they’ll probably get a good run at it.

“It will be exciting to see who steps up.”