Hornets bring in England youth international Owen Blackwood

Photo: Prime Media

Owen Blackwood signs for Hornets for the 2023 season

Outside back Owen Blackwood has joined Rochdale Hornets for the upcoming 2023 campaign.

Blackwood, who can play either on the wing or in the centres, came through the esteemed academy of St Helens and is now looking forward to making the step up to the professional game.

He said: “When the opportunity came, it was one that really excited me and I’m looking forward to the challenge of playing League 1 rugby.

“It’s a talented squad, that’s being put together, so hopefully next season can be one to remember.”

Having started rugby life at Halton Hornets, like new teammate Joe Purcell, Blackwood then moved to Blackbrook Royals before being picked up by the ten-time Super League champions.

During his time at Saints, the 19-year-old’s impressive performances saw him represent England at youth level and this form would help to earn his first professional contract in 2019.

As a result, Hornets head coach Gary Thornton is confident Blackwood has all the credentials to be successful in his first season at senior level.

“Owen has had a very good junior career at St Helens, representing his country at youth level was a huge honour for him, so he comes with lots of promise and potential.

“He is stepping up from academy and reserve team football, so it will be a steep learning curve for the young man coming into League 1 and dealing with the physicality and intensity at this level.

“However, he has the ability and the right mentality to make a big impact here, and I’m really looking forward to seeing Owen in a Hornets shirt.”

More recently, Blackwood has represented Salford Red Devils’ reserve side and it is there he caught the attention of Hornets chairman Andy Mazey.

“Owen is a young talent who came through the academy system at Super League champions St Helens - and has also represented England at youth level. He came to our attention this year while playing for Salford’s reserves and he’s looking to make a name for himself in League One under Gary in 2023,” said Mazey.