Hesketh: Being part of 150th year an honour
Number 10 privileged to be playing in landmark season
ADAM Hesketh says he feels “privileged” to be representing the Hornets as the squad prepare for the club’s 150th anniversary.
The former Thatto Heath amateur was rewarded with the number 10 shirt ahead of the 2020 season after a strong pre-season with the club, and featured in all Challenge Cup games and the only League One fixture of the year.
Hesketh went on to score against York Acorn and the British Army in the Cup competition, and re-signed with the club in August for the 2021 League 1 season.
“It is a massive year and I definitely feel privileged to be playing for a team as rich in history as Rochdale,” said Hesketh.
“There’s a lot of pride built around the club and those close to the foundations expect great things and I only wish that the squad and I can deliver on the goals set out.
“The first thing on all the lad’s minds is the date for our first match and playing week in week out is an exciting thought.
“I must say last year I was really enjoying my time at Rochdale since I signed and it felt great to be part of the team.
“For me and everyone else it was a massive blow to get the news that the competition was cancelled.
“I felt fit and in good form at the time, and after having such a tough preseason it was mentally challenging for me and the rest of the lads getting yourself into as good a shape as possible and then to not take to the field for going on 12 months. It was hard to take.
“I’m just very thankful to be back in sight of the start of the next season now.”
The squad began preseason in November before the national lockdown, and look set to return under Matt Calland again in February, with the League 1 campaign set to kick-off in May.
“I have really enjoyed being back training with all the lads,” said Hesketh.
“There are lots of new faces at the club this year and just seeing everyone again after such a long break without any rugby for the lads, it’s just been great to get the ball back in hands again and feel some normality given the circumstances.
“It’s a really strong squad this year. We have improved all over the park and in every position. There have been some great signings and things are going to be even tougher this year I’m sure and I certainly don’t take my place in the team for granted.
“I enjoyed great game time last year and I hope to keep my place in the team this coming season and keep improving.
“A few personal goals of mine would be to just improve on certain aspects of my game where I know I’m not as well equipped in compared to others, making sure that I am at full fitness for the start of the season giving the length of time we haven’t played a competitive game for now.
“I’m sure there will be a few teething problems for all teams, and being a regular face in the starting line up for the team would be great for me and I hope to earn that through training and performances on the pitch.”
‘There’s a lot of pride around the club and those close to the foundations expect great things’