CYRIL Rioli's mid-season retirement has left Hawk fans ruing what might have been in 2018.
When giving their season verdict on Hawthorn in an AFL.com.au survey, hundreds of fans cited the July day when Rioli hung up the boots as the moment to forget from their season.
YOUR MEMORIES When Cyril came to stay
The Hawks were 10th on the ladder as Rioli departed but surged to an unexpected fourth-place finish.
A straight sets exit from the finals followed, leaving fans to wonder how things might have played out if their superstar had stuck around to star in another September.
Brownlow Medallist Tom Mitchell was emphatically voted Hawthorn's player of the season, while delisted former Giant Jonathan O'Rourke was rated among the side's 2018 flops.
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Here are the full survey results, plus a selection of Hawk fans' moments to remember and forget.
What was the moment you'll remember?
Hard to go past round one. Not only did we start the season with a great win, but Titch was left to run free with a record disposal tally.
- Jim Kean, Snug Tas
Tom 'Titch' Mitchell became Hawthorn's sixth Brownlow medallist. Picture: AFL Photos
Jaeger O'Meara's goal to put the Hawks two goals up against Geelong. Can't remember the last time we beat them twice in a year.
- Louis Martin, Alphington Vic
The Worpedo announcing his arrival by turning Hurley inside out and kicking the winning goal in round 20 v Essendon.
- Tim Patton, Toolern Vale Vic
Two sweet victories over Geelong were among Hawk fans' season highlights. Picture: AFL Photos
What was the moment you'd rather forget?
Fagan and Hodgey masterminding the dismantling of our boys in Launceston.
- Matthew Tibbitts, Duffy ACT
Knowing when Rioli retired and Birchall couldn't get up we were no longer a flag chance.
- Andrew Ballard, Noosa Heads Qld
Both finals performances. Very un-Hawthorn-like. Breust and Burgoyne had shockers.
- Kiron Barnden, Heathmont Vic
Jack Gunston hitting the post in the semi-final against Melbourne. And of course hearing the retirement of our mighty Cyril. Very sad day.
- Jen Skorupa, Calwell ACT
Jack Gunston (l) after missing a critical shot in the semi-final loss to the Demons. Picture: AFL Photos
Hawks fans' season rating
7.5/10
Read more
OVER AND ABOVE Hawthorn season review
THE WASH-UP More season reviews
