Rugby League: Rochdale Hornets in financial difficulty

Hornets Rugby League

Rochdale Hornets is in financial difficulty heading into the 2018 season and the club has held discussions with the playing and coaching staff about potential payment reductions.

It is understood the discussions are ongoing and the club is "working closely with the playing group to resolve this matter as quickly and efficiently as possible".

Unexpected poor commercial performance in 2017 combined with inaccurate financial information in advance of a budget setting meeting means there is now a forecast deficit heading into the 2018 season.

The deficit in part is down to two headline sponsors facing financial difficulty in 2016/17 and subsequently being unable to fulfil their sponsorship commitment which resulted in a £20,000 loss to the club. This coupled with unaccounted costs for playing Championship rugby league and a lack of sponsorship uptake for the 2018 season have contributed to the potential deficit.

Steve Kerr, Rochdale Hornets CEO said: “This is far from an ideal situation but we are working with the players and their agents to reach an agreement on making some short-term savings. In addition, every effort is being made to cut operational expenditure and generate new income streams.

“The club stands on the brink of a great season with a team hungry for success and is determined to overcome this temporary setback.

“At the recent AGM a decision was made by the membership to explore changes to the investment model of the club and as such, the board is currently weighing up a number of options. This will not only solve the current issue but it will ensure a stable future for the club that could allow it to grow in the Championship.”

Any potential investors are invited to contact Steve Kerr.

info@hornetsrugbyleague.com
01706 648004