Hornets News

Alan Kilshaw, Hornets

Hornets coach Alan Kilshaw said: “I’ve been really impressed with how the lads have returned to pre-season training over the last couple of weeks. The tempo and intensity has been good right from the off and the coaching staff and myself have put together a programme that I think will benefit us greatly as we head into the new year and eventually the Championship campaign.

“It’s great to see Miles Greenwood settling into his dual role as player/strength and conditioning coach. Miles brings a real level of experience and knowledge in a playing capacity and he is an intelligent conditioner as well. He is going to be a great asset, as I’m sure all of the lads who have joined us for 2017 will be.

“We have brought in a few players and they’re all settling in well and there’s a good mix of youth and experience with the more seasoned players like Rob Massam, Gary Middlehurst and Lewis Palfrey helping out the younger kids like Paddy Jones and Luke Fowden. I’m pleased with where were up to.

“There are some players who are still carrying knocks from last season as well. Michael Ratu hasn’t started full training yet but he is an ever present in the gym, along with David Cookson who is due an operation on his shoulder injury he picked up in the first round of the Challenge Cup last year at Mayfield.

“There is also a question mark over Jono Smith at the moment. He had some trouble with his knee towards the end of last season. He is consulting with a specialist but we’re hoping he won’t need an op.

“The weather has not been kind to Rochdale and the surrounding areas since pre-season training commenced but I have to say how lucky we are to have such high class facilities at Hopwood Hall and Padgate. It means we are able to train undisrupted three times a week over the two sites. This is a massive boost for us as I know some club’s sessions have already fallen foul to the wintery weather.

“The squad and myself are looking forward to seeing you all at the Flying Horse tonight for the We Are Brainy quiz and the rest of the upcoming functions.”