Rugby league: Rochdale Hornets sign Jack Higginson, Lee Registe and Luke Littlewood

Rochdale Hornets has re-signed Jack Higginson for the 2021 season, and signed two new players, Lee Registe and Luke Littlewood.

Ireland international Higginson is a former Rochale Mayfield junior, and joined Wigan Warriors Academy before making his first team debut in 2016.

Higginson, 23, joined the club ahead of the 2020 season, scoring two tries in three competitive appearances before the season came to a premature end.

"I'm really excited to be signing with Hornets again for 2021," he said. "We have some unfinished business after the season got cancelled early. 

"Matt's getting together a real strong team with a lot of local lads which will push for promotion back to the Championship, so it’s something I’m buzzing to be a part of."

Registe is an ex-Rochdale Mayfield player, who has also featured at Halifax Reserves, as well as Doncaster. He has also represented England rugby league students, including a hat-trick in an 80-0 victory over Ireland in the Student Four Nationals.

Registe is a former student at Hornets' partner Hopwood Hall College, and is also a champion wrestler.

He said: “It’s going to be a challenge that I'm excited for. 

“It's also going to be good to be coached by Matt again since playing at Mayfield and Hopwood Hall College.

“After having a chat with both Matt and the chairman, Andy Mazey, about the aims of the club going forward and the rebuilding of the team, I’m confident in decision to play for this club.”

19-year-old Littlewood came through a hugely successful Bradford Under-16s and 19s system, featuring in the halves. He was also named in Bradford’s 2020 Reserve Squad.

“It's a new challenge for me and one I’m looking to take with both hands,” he said.

“Matt has spoken about the expectations and where we want to be and I can’t wait to be part of the promotion fight for Rochdale in 2021. 

“It’s a club I look forward to playing for with a great fan base behind them.”

Speaking about the new signings, coach Matt Calland commented: "I am delighted that Jack has committed for another season.

"He is another local lad that came through at Rochdale Mayfield then moved on to Wigan, where he was really unlucky with injuries. 

"He is really strong and skillful and the best is yet to come from Jack.

“Lee has bags of pace and is very elusive and good on the floor due to his wrestling background. I’m looking forward to helping him reach his potential.

“Luke has come through Bradford Aademy and is a young and determined player.

“He has a good skill set and a great kicking game. I’m looking forward to working with him in 2021.”