New arrivals in to boost Hornets
ROCHDALE Hornets have announced another two signings ahead of the 2020 campaign.
The club has swooped for centre Jack Higginson who was recently at Leigh while Matt Whitehead has joined the club after a successful trial.
Matt Calland has snared Rochdale-born powerhouse Higginson following his departure from Leigh Centurions to bolster the clubs back line options.
Higginson, 22, played his junior football at Rochdale Mayfield before being snapped up by Wigan Warriors where he went on to appear in the first team.
He also enjoyed a loan spell at the Crown Oil Arena in 2019 where he scored one try in three appearances.
An Ireland international, Higginson featured in the 2018 European Championship, and has also spent time on loan at Swinton and Workington
Hornets head coach, Matt Calland said: “Jack just fits the bill for what sort of player we’re looking for. Young, tough and willing to work hard.
“He’s a Rochdale lad, too and has come through the system at Wigan.
“He’s been really unlucky with injuries but he’s keen to have a good season and get back to full fitness. He has a good turn of pace and a great kicking game.”
Higginson almost decided to hang up his boots following a frustrating 2019 but admitted he’s not looked back since entering the fold.
“After originally calling it a day last year, I felt a little bored and had too much time on my hands. After a lot of poking from a few of my mates here, I eventually started training with the boys and to be honest, I haven’t looked back.
“I’ve started enjoying rugby again and feel much more confident with my shoulder which I’ve had a bit of trouble with.
“Being from Rochdale myself, I’m looking forward to playing with some of my best mates again who I played with at Mayfield. There’s a buzz around the group from what I’ve seen, and we have a really good, local group.
“We could do something this year and help us get back to the Championship where we belong.”
Meanwhile, 23-year-old Whitehead can cover most back positions and loose forward, and joins from amateur club Oldham St Annes.
He featured from the bench in the pre-season fixture against Widnes Vikings, and has also represented Lancashire BARLA.
“I’m made up with being offered a contract,” he said.
“I can’t wait to get going now. It will be good to get some experience at this
‘He fits the bill for what we are looking for. Young, tough and willing to work hard’
my best and keep working hard to earn my stripes in the team.”
On the latest addition, head coach Calland added: “Matt has shown a great attitude and has worked really hard in training.
“He can play in a number of positions. He is young and willing to learn and I’m looking forward to helping him develop.” ●●DETAILS have been confirmed for the clubs upcoming Coral Challenge Cup fixture against amateur outfit, York Acorn.
The game will take place at the Crown Oil Arena on Hammersmith Hill Hoists Sunday, February 9 and and Barrow Island in will be a 3.00pm kick off. rounds one and two
Tickets are priced at £15 respectively. for adults, £12 for The York club were concessions and £5 for promoted to the NCL under 16’s, while kids Premier Division following under 5 go free. a mammoth 88-0 win over
Hornets enter the Dewsbury Moor on the competition at this stage, final day of the season and along with the other will join local side League 1 clubs but Acorn Rochdale Mayfield in the have seen off top tier for 2020. Published by MEN Media, Mitchell Henry House, Hollinwood Avenue, Chadderton, OL9 8EF. Printed by Reach Printing Services (Oldham) Limited, Hollinwood Avenue, Chadderton, Oldham OL9 8EB level and challenge myself more than ever.
“I know I’ve got to be at