Famous NT football family in mourning as Rioli family’s matriarch ‘Aunty’ Helena Kalippa-Rioli dies on the Tiwi Islands
THE famous Rioli sporting family is in mourning after the death of their matriarch Helena Kalippa-Rioli on the Tiwi Islands
Northern Territory
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HELENA Kalippa-Rioli, the matriarch of one of Australia’s best known sporting families, has died on Melville Island.
Affectionately known as “Aunty’’ to those who knew her, Helena was the matriarch of the extraordinary Rioli sporting dynasty that lit up Australian football.
It is a football dynasty that had its origins in the marriage of Cyril Sr and Helena more than 60 years ago after the couple met at a recreation night held at the Garden Point mission under the umbrella of the Catholic Church
Beginning with the eight sons and two daughters from her marriage to the late Cyril (Kalippa) Rioli, Helena’s grandchildren and great grandchildren have continued to dominate the game of Australian football since the 1980s.
Her son Maurice won the first Norm Smith Medal by a Territorian in the 1982 VFL Grand Final while playing for Richmond.
Helena’s grandson Cyril (Junior Boy) made it a double for the Garden Point family 33 years later in a Hawthorn jumper where he also won four premiership medallions.
Grandson Dean (Essendon) and great grandsons Daniel and Maurice Jr have extended the family tradition at Richmond, where Daniel is now a three-time premiership player.
The Rioli family’s association with NTFL club St Mary’s is legendary, where all eight of her sons and several grandsons have pulled on the iconic green and gold jumper.
Long serving St Mary’s president Vic Ludwig remembers Helena as a proud and lovely lady who loved her children with a passion.
“I knew Cyril Sr and Helena before the children were born and let me tell you, Helena was a very special person who will be sadly missed,’’ Vic Ludwig said.
“The family lived on Melville Island as we all know and also in Darwin for many years where they contributed a hell of a lot to the city and football with St Mary’s.
“They were all lovely people and Helena was right at the top with her strong family traditions and love for her kids.’’
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St Mary’s paid Helena the ultimate compliment on their Facebook site, saying she was an amazing lady who has left a lasting legacy on not just their club, but football Australia wide.
“The St Mary’s Football Club passes our love, respect and condolences to the Rioli family on the passing of their matriarch.’’ the football club said.
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“It is one of the most famous football names in our country and we are proud to call them our own.’’
Helena’s funeral will be held at St Mary’s Cathedral on January 15 at 9.30am.
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