Hawthorn Football Club is saddened by the untimely passing of Maurice Rioli, uncle of Hawthorn player Cyril Rioli.

Hawthorn CEO Stuart Fox offered the Rioli family the Club's support in what is a very sad time.

"Maurice Rioli was a true champion of Aussie Rules football with his legacy extending well beyond his playing days into community life," said Fox.

"The Club offers its full support to the broader Rioli family and in particular Cyril, who is understandably very upset at the passing of his uncle."