WILLIE BRINGS PREMIERSHIP CUP TO TIWIS

TERRITORY premiership hero Willie Rioli has become the first Tiwi to bring an AFL Premiership cup home back to his island home.

The star midfielder/forward for the West Coast Eagles yesterday toured his homelands with teammate Liam Ryan and coach Adam Simpson.

Arriving to a rock star reception to watch the NTFL premier league game between the Tiwi Bombers and St Mary’s, Rioli said he was lost for words to be able to share his incredible story with his people.

“It is pretty special being the first Tiwi to bring the Cup to the islands,” he said.

“I’m lost for words. (It is) good for me to show the kids on the Tiwis something like this is achievable.”

Rioli, pictured middle, was even able to take the Cup home to his parents.

Simpson said the Tiwi islanders held a special place in his heart.

“We were here last year and to be able to show the Tiwi people the Cup is really good,” he said.

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