The Tiwi Bombers Football Club has landed a major coup with AFL great Cyril Rioli set to don the sash as an assistant coach in the 2019/20 season.
The Tiwi Islands’ most decorated player assisted the side as a runner on occasions in the Bombers’ latest season, but the star will take a more hands-on approach this year, coaching in the red and black under recently-appointed head coaches Shane ‘Tippa’ Tipuamantamerri and Jamie Scrymgour as he continues to settle back into life in the top end.
Rioli retired from the AFL midway through the 2018 season to head back home to the Northern Territory after a remarkable 189-game career for Hawthorn.
Drafted at the end of 2007, Rioli had an instant impact for the Hawks, kicking 24 goals in his first season, finishing second in the NAB AFL Rising Star Award and playing a key role in the side’s premiership.
He soon became one of the league’s most admired players, constantly impressing with his defensive pressure, while dazzling crowds with his silky skill and remarkable athleticism.
He went on to add three more flags from 2013 to 2015, following on from his uncles Maurice Rioli and Essendon legend Michael Long in winning the Norm Smith Medal for best on ground in the 2015 premiership decider.
In 2015, Rioli became the third Tiwi Islander to win the Norm Smith Medal. (Image: AFL Photos)
While injuries troubled Rioli as his career played out, he always kept every football fan’s eyes glued to the play whenever he was within striking distance of the ball. You never knew what he could do next.
He eventually finished up with four premierships, three All-Australian selections, 275 goals and an AFL Goal of the Year success across his sensational career.
A cousin of former Bombers star Dean Rioli, the recently-retired superstar will add an enormous amount of experience and quality to the talented Tiwi side.
Rioli in action with Tiwi star Austin Wonaeamirri during his stint as team runner. (Image: Jack Banister)
Tiwi Bombers GM Leigh Crossman said the 29-year-old Tiwi legend's announcement is greater than just football and is one of the club's biggest ever moments.
"It’s a pretty special day, there wouldn’t be many bigger if any in the club's history," Crossman said on Thursday.
"Cyril genuinely wants to help but not just with football, he wants to see them achieve as people.
"The community walks taller with him involved with the Tiwi Bombers, it’s a huge boost for the community.
"To have someone with his background with four AFL premierships, three All-Australian selections and a Norm Smith Medal is exciting, but more importantly; he is a Tiwi Islander."
Former head coach Brenton Toy has also rejoined the coaching ranks and all of the coaches will address media on Friday, with the season set to begin in October.
CYRIL RIOLI’S AFL CAREER
189 games
275 goals
4 x premierships (2008, 2013, 2014, 2015)
Norm Smith Medal (2015)
3 x All Australian (2012, 2015, 2016)
AFLCA Best Young Player (2009)
AFL Goal of the Year (2009)
