AFL legend Cyril Rioli makes major career move ahead of new NTFL season

Hawthorn premiership legend Cyril Rioli has made the next move in his footy career, tying himself to a remote Top End club for the upcoming NTFL season.

Hawthorn premiership legend Cyril Rioli will continue to work with a remote Top End club into the next NTFL season.

Rioli has been announced as an assistant coach of the Jabiru Bombers, the side he joined as a player in the 2024-25 NTFL season.

He joins head coach Kingsley Whitehurst who steered the club to a historic premiership victory in the NTFL’s Division 1 final in April.

Cyril Rioli with Jabiru Bombers coach Kingsley Whitehurst as the side beat the Banks Bulldogs in the NTFL Division 1 final. Picture: David Bradley / AFLNT Media

The four-time premiership and 2015 Norm Smith medal winner was a pivotal cog in that grand final defeat of the Banks Bulldogs, kicking three goals including finishing a coast to coast thriller.

Rioli returned to the Top End in 2018 after sensationally leaving the Hawks after playing four games of the season.

He originally returned to the Tiwi Bombers where he coached and played one NTFL Premier League match in the 2019-20 season.

Cyril Rioli celebrating a goal for the Jabiru Bombers Jabiru Bombers as they won their NTFL Division 1 final against the Banks Bulldogs. Picture: David Bradley / AFLNT Media

The Jabiru Bombers announced their coaching assignments on social media with the team hunting back-to-back premierships.

“This duo brings a wealth of experience, footy knowledge and passion,” the post read.

“The JBFC are excited for the season ahead and look forward to the success their leadership brings to the club.

“Let’s get behind them as they coach the men’s team on the hunt for back to back premierships.”

Originally published as AFL legend Cyril Rioli makes major career move ahead of new NTFL season