Cyril, a celebrated figure in Australian Rules Football and a 2015 Norm Smith Medal winner, has produced one of the greatest returns ever to his sport. After a short retirement, he’s back on the field! That’s why the former great Hawthorn champion has agreed to play in the redeveloped Legends Game. Make sure you save the date for Thursday, August 28, at Marvel Stadium! Having Rioli on board is a huge moment for the young man and the sport. That’s a welcome development after a rough period since his retirement in 2018.
Having spent years out of the public eye, his triumphant return has thrilled not just Richmond fans but players from all clubs. Next season, he will represent the All Stars team with pride. He’ll join other heavyweights including his best mate and former skipper, Luke Hodge, and Nick Riewoldt – poised to lead the team into battle as skipper. This moment wonderfully captures as much of Rioli’s spectacular return as you could hope to see. It represents a wonderful turnaround in his often-difficult relationship with the game.
Rioli has been a bit of a hermit since his shock retirement from footy. His retirement had a controversial public split with Hawthorn. This sequence led to a great deal of chatter about his immediate future in the sport. In June of this year, he resigned rather than attend the club’s 10-year anniversary party for its threepeat championship. Earlier this year, he made a splash at the Sir Doug Nicholls Round game. He sat down to talk with Hodge, igniting a glimmer of hope for a long-desired reconciliation with the South African-born AFL community.
Besides the Legends Game, it’s anticipated that the entire Convention will be a truly spectacular experience. Craig Hutchison, a key behind-the-scenes player, was more optimistic about the revival of the event.
“We’re incredibly proud to partner with the Australian Prostate Centre to bring back one of the most cherished nights on the footy calendar,” – Gary O’Keeffe
Hutchison reiterated their intention to craft an engaging and uplifting experience for players. With fierce support from the AFL and the Seven Network, they are absolutely determined to see this vision through.
“With the support of the AFL, the Seven Network and our production team at Rainmaker, we’re set to deliver a spectacular event that entertains and inspires.” – Craig Hutchison
The anticipation surrounding this match is palpable. We know that footy fans will be delighted to see an impressive lineup of celebrities and AFL greats unite to raise money for a great cause.
“To see a host of popular personalities, and AFL legends including our own Luke Hodge and Nick Riewoldt come out of retirement for such a great cause is important and will make for exciting viewing.” – Seven Network spokesperson
Beyond the team context, Rioli’s return is a personal triumph for him. It has put smiles on the faces of countless fans who have long awaited his return to the Grid Iron. His participation in the Legends Game may provide closure to his chapter with Hawthorn while opening new avenues for engagement within the AFL community.
With the date inching closer, more player announcements will be made, adding to the excitement surrounding this legendary event.
“And there’s some amazing further player announcements to come in coming weeks,” – Craig Hutchison
