Rugby league: Rochdale Hornets announces players set to leave ahead of next season

Rochdale Hornets has revealed which players are set to leave the club before the 2023 season.

Zac Baker, Gavin Bennion, Paul Brearley (retired), Ben Calland (retired), Rangi Chase, Jimmy Connaughton, Ben Forster, Luke Fowden, Cobi Green, Gregg McNally, Fuifui Moimoi, Lewis Sheridan and Rob Worrincy will not be returning to the club, which will operate under a reduced playing budget.

The club says this is due to several financial factors affecting the club, including rising operational costs at the Crown Oil Arena, and a significant reduction in central distribution since 2022. It says that matchday attendances have also dropped, and income streams such as car parking and stadium merchandising have ceased due to a change in position from the club's landlord.

However, whilst head coach Gary Thornton has received a reduced budget, the club says it will still be competitive and aims to make the playoffs and push for promotion.

Signings announced to date include: Dan Nixon, Ben Killan, Cole Connolly, Joe Purcell, Harry Swarbrick, AJ Boardman and Cameron Berry.
 

Read more: Rugby league: Rochdale Hornets’ latest signings for 2023Published: 20 October 2022

All loan players and amateur registered players have returned to their parent clubs.

 

 

Thornton said: "It’s inevitable that players come and go from squads. I’d like to thank everyone who contributed to our 2022 season, and wish those who are leaving, all the very best in their next ventures.

"Players will stay or leave for various reasons, and that is their prerogative, but it is important that we cut our cloth accordingly and that we live within our means.

"It’s a challenging time for the club but I know Andy, Steve and the board are working hard to get the best budget available. We have to work with it and recruit as best we can within it.

"This opens up opportunities for young players to come in and grab their chance.

"Although we have retained some quality young talent who were excellent for us last year, and will be even better with another year's experience under their belts, our 2023 squad will have a new look about it. Some may not be household names but you need to give them the chance to prove themselves.

"With some additions and a real good pre-season, we will be ready to go, come the start of next season's campaign.

"I’m confident we will build a squad of enthusiastic, talented and capable players and will be very competitive in League 1.

"This is when we need you, our fantastic supporters, more than ever to get behind the club and the team - as you did last year. It really means a lot to me and the players."