RETIRED St Kilda champion Lenny Hayes has joined the GWS GIANTS as an assistant coach.

The 35-year-old, who played his 297^th and last game for the Saints in round 23 last year, has spent the 2015 season working at the AFL after being awarded the Ron Evans Scholarship.

Hayes grew up in Sydney and played his junior football at Pennant Hills before he was drafted with pick 11 to the Saints in the 1998 National Draft.  

He went on to win three Trevor Barker Awards and was named in the All-Australian team on three occasions.

GWS coach Leon Cameron said he was excited to have such a highly regarded former champion join his coaching staff.

“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.”

Hayes will begin work in November.

Buy tickets to the 2015 Trevor Barker Award night. Details HERE.