Cyril Rioli granted compassionate leave by Hawthorn due to family reasons

CYRIL Rioli has been granted compassionate leave by Hawthorn for family reasons.

Hawthorn star Cyril Rioli. Pic: Michael Klein

CYRIL Rioli has been granted compassionate leave by Hawthorn for family reasons.

The star small forward will spend time away from the club to be with his family as his father recovers from a medical incident.

“Cyril’s father had heart surgery this week after suffering a heart attack the Thursday before the AFL grand final,” Hawthorn GM of football operations Jason Burt said.

“It has obviously been a very tough period for the Rioli family and we are doing all we can to support them as Cyril Snr continues his recovery.

“We fully understand Cyril’s desire to be with his family at this time and as such have granted him compassionate leave for as long as he requires.

“Cyril’s wellbeing is our number one priority and we ask that he and his family’s privacy be respected at this time.”

Hawthorn’s younger players returned for pre-season training last week.

Originally published as Cyril Rioli granted compassionate leave by Hawthorn due to family reasons