Cyril Rioli has retired from AFL, effective immediately.
The 28-year-old has been with Hawthorn for 11 years and four premierships but today announced his decision to return to Darwin.
“The decision to retire from football is something that I have thought long and hard about over the past 12 months,” he said in a statement.
What a ride it has been.
— Hawthorn FC (@HawthornFC) July 3, 2018
Thanks for the memories, Cyril.
: https://t.co/ojDPYN9nlQ#Always pic.twitter.com/tBVjmQkOIq
Rioli has been on compassionate leave in Darwin since early last month dealing with family matters.
He explained he has found it difficult to be away from home but was thankful for the club’s support”
“I love the Hawthorn Football Club and I cannot thank them enough for the opportunities they’ve given me and the way they’ve embraced me and my family over the past 11 years,” he said.
“I can walk away from the game having achieved everything I could have ever dreamed of and I’m forever grateful for the opportunities I have received.”
He also thanked his family and wife Shannyn, his manager and Hawthorn fans for their support.
Image: Getty
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