GREATER Western Sydney's preparations for next year have begun less than 24 hours after its 2015 season finished, with former St Kilda captain Lenny Hayes to join the club as an assistant coach.

The 297-game Saint retired in 2014 as one of the most respected players in the game, and will bring a wealth of experience to the Giants.

Hayes will return to his home state in November to be part of Leon Cameron's coaching staff, with plenty expected from the Giants after their promising season.

St Kilda drafted Hayes from Sydney club Pennant Hills in 1998 and he went on to become a three-time club champion, also winning three All Australian jumpers.

Hayes won the Norm Smith Medal in the drawn Grand Final against Collingwood in 2010, and was unlucky enough to play in three unsuccessful deciders for the club.

He spent the past 12 months working for the AFL after being awarded the Ron Evans Scholarship, and also working in the media.

Hayes said he was ecstatic to be back involved in footy at club level.

"I've been really impressed with the Giants this season and I'm looking forward to working with this driven young playing group," Hayes said.

"Leon Cameron has the team playing an exciting brand of football and the club is clearly heading in the right direction.

"The Giants have had a really positive year both on and off field and to be able to help grow the game in the region I'm originally from is something I'm really passionate about."

The addition of Hayes is a coup for Cameron, who guided the club to 11 wins in 2015 after winning six games last season.

Cameron said he was excited to have such a highly regarded former champion on his team.

"Lenny had such a decorated playing career and he's a wonderful acquisition for our club," Cameron said.

"He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Giants that our young playing group is sure to embrace."