Willie Rioli Snr reappointed Head Coach for the next 2 seasons

Toll Tiwi Bombers Football Club President Mick Burns today announced the reappointment of Willie Rioli Snr to the Head Coach role of the Club for the next 2 seasons.

Burns also announced that in conjunction with the Essendon AFL club Willie Rioli will travel to Melbourne on Monday as a guest of the Bombers spending time with the coaches and football department in addition to legend Kevin Sheedy culminating in being in the coaching box at the MCG for the showcase Indigenous clash with Richmond.

Rioli, an NTFL Player Life Member, Nichols Medallist and multi Premiership Player with St Marys has also enjoyed the ultimate coaching result with a Premiership with the Tiwi Island Football League powerhose Imalu Tigers. Also a member of the 1988 NT Bi-Centennial team and drafted by Hawthorn Football Club in the early 90’s, Rioli played with success for South Fremantle in the WAFL.

Burns said the Club was extremely satisfied with Willie Rioli’s efforts and commitment to the difficult and challenging role in his first Premier League season.

“We are keen to build on the improved player confidence and community support generated by Willie who took the side back into the NTFL finals” said Burns.

Burns said “Willie Rioli’s ability to overcome major logistical challenges on the island including attending training sessions at each of the 3 island training venues throughout the whole season was critical to improved player and coaching performance over the season”

The Toll Tiwi Bombers climbed from 7th position after Round 10 to finish the minor round in 4th position losing to the eventual premiers despite having more scoring shots.

60 players were used last season including 15 first time Tiwi Island footballers.

Brenton Toy appointed Senior Assistant Coach.
Burns also announced that following a Board review of the coaching structure in consultation with Rioli the Club has also appointed former NTFL Premiership Coach Brenton Toy as Senior Assistant Coach. Other positions will be appointed before July when a pre-season fitness program will commence on both islands. The Club has 15 players currently with southern season clubs in Victoria, South Australia and in the Katherine Big Rivers FL.

The Club is not expecting Willie Rioli Jnr to be available in Season 2015/16 after he joined SANFL club Glenelg on a 2 year contract.

Further Comment:
Willie Rioli Snr Ph 0417423855
Mick Burns Ph 0407-638300
Brenton Toy Ph 0408-553548
Peter Atkinson Ph 0408-774239