Rioli ready to face music against West Coast
PORT Adelaide recruit Junior Rioli is unsure what reception he will receive from West Coast players and fans but is looking forward to facing his former side in Perth on Friday.
The Eagles expressed bitter disappointment when Rioli sought a trade to the Power in October, rather than re-signing at the club that stuck by him during his two-year drug ban from 2019-21.
Rioli said he left on good terms and was excited to catch up with familiar faces in his first trial game for Port.
He has not had any banter with ex-teammates leading up to the match, possibly because he has been without a phone due to a kayaking accident a few weeks ago.
“I’m grateful I’ve still got a good connection over there and am looking forward to catching up with them,” Rioli said.
“I’ve learnt to control what I can control so if I go over there and get some reception, I can’t control any of that.
“I have still got family, friends and people I’m close to that I talk to who have been nothing but respectful for me.
“My expectation is just to play my way for the team I’m playing for now … and get a good run against another opposition.”
Rioli arrived at the Power as part of the four-club mega deal that also led to Jason HorneFrancis arriving at Alberton.
The 27-year-old, who won a flag with the Eagles in 2018, believed winning a premiership this year was a realistic goal for Port Adelaide.
“This club’s got really high expectations,” said Rioli, who kicked 60 goals from 51 games for West Coast after being drafted from SANFL team Glenelg in 2018.
“Going to the club’s Hall of Fame (event) last night and meeting so many great legends, guys that have played in eight flags or five flags, it (success) is expected here.
“With the group we’ve got now, no doubt I definitely think we can push to playing at that top level.”
Rioli has worked closely with the Power’s dietitian and weights coach this summer, putting him in good stead for season 2023.
“Before I used to shy away from all that and think I could play on talent,” he said.