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AFL premiers sign Willie Rioli until 2022

3 minute read

West Coast forward Willie Rioli says it was an easy decision to re-sign with the club for a further two seasons.

WILLIE RIOLI of the Eagles evades Bailey Dale of the Bulldogs during the 2018 AFL match between the Western Bulldogs and the West Coast Eagles at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne, Australia.
WILLIE RIOLI of the Eagles evades Bailey Dale of the Bulldogs during the 2018 AFL match between the Western Bulldogs and the West Coast Eagles at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne, Australia. Picture: Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images

West Coast forward Willie Rioli has re-signed for a further two years, tying him to the AFL club until the end of 2022.

Rioli was already contracted for next season and said he jumped at the chance to sign a contract extension.

The 23-year-old is nursing a stress fracture in his foot, but could be back playing within the next three weeks.

Rioli booted 28 goals in 24 games last season, playing an important role in the club's premiership success.

"He is in many ways the all-round package as a forward who can also play through the midfield," West Coast football operations manager Craig Vozzo said.

"He has a great blend of skill and aggression at the contest. He helps us both offensively and defensively.

"Following the retirement of Mark LeCras, his standing in the forward line alongside Jamie Cripps is really important, both from a leadership and performance point of view."

Rioli famously lost 16kg after joining SANFL club Glenelg in 2015 a bid to achieve his AFL dream.

West Coast swooped with pick No.52 in the 2016 national draft.

Rioli failed to play an AFL game in 2017 because of hamstring issues, but he dazzled in his debut season last year, quickly becoming a crowd favourite.

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