GREATER Western Sydney coach Alan McConnell has brought new life into the club's women's team.

The Giants were very impressive in round one, going down to Melbourne by just six points in the dying minutes of a high-scoring affair.

NAB AFL Women’s Rising Star nominee Rebecca Beeson, a second-year player, said McConnell has united the team.

"Alan's had a massive impact on the team and the club and everyone associated with the Giants. He was the first employee at the Giants, he has taken on our role and been absolutely fantastic," Beeson said on this week’s episode of AFL.com.au’s Trail Blazers, the official AFLW podcast.

"He really cares about you on a personal level, not just as a player, which gives you so much confidence.

"You really want to play for him … I think that's extremely important for your coach, that you want to do really well for them and give your all.

"Alan's been absolutely incredible; I've got nothing but positive things to say about him."

This week’s episode of Trail Blazers also features Fremantle midfielder Steph Cain ahead of her side's big clash against Collingwood at the new Optus Stadium in Perth.