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.

WHERE'S ANGUS? 11 Brownlow Medal talking points

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