Simpson was the biggest signing of the off-season, retiring from the AFL after 48-matches with Geelong and GWS.

The arrival of the 210cm ruckman at Myrtleford has sparked plenty of hype in the hills with many pundits predicting the Saints to start the season as flag favourites.

Finlayson admitted he was surprised when he first learnt that Simpson had been delisted.

"Dawson will be a huge asset in the O&M," Finlayson said.

"I still thought he had a lot to offer in the AFL.

"Obviously we had Shane Mumford rucking, I rate big Dawso just as highly.

"No doubt there would have been a stack of clubs chasing him and Myrtleford would be rapt to sign the big fella.

"He will have a huge impact, he is a massive unit but is a good bloke to boot and a lot of fun to be around.

"There is no doubt he made it enjoyable for us last year."

IN OTHER NEWS

The Giants made their first grand final last year after finishing sixth and winning three straight finals.

However, their hopes of snatching a fairytale grand final victory were shattered after a ruthless Richmond run riot on its way to an 89-point demolition.

"It was our first grand final and Richmond were just a class above on the day," Finlayson said.

"We had played finals for the last four years so it was another step forward to make the grand final.

"Nobody expected us to beat Collingwood in the preliminary final.

"But I don't think any side could have stopped Richmond on grand final day.

"Losing a grand final certainly fuels your hunger and the whole group is hellbent on making finals again this year."

Finlayson is entering his sixth year with the Giants and is coming off a breakout season where he played 23 matches for a total of 38.

The 23-year-old said a switch from defence to the forward line was the biggest reason behind his emergence as a regular senior player.

"I really enjoyed my footy and I attribute that to a switch into attack," he said.

"I feel like I'm a natural forward and that's where I play my best footy."