Top amateur ‘made up’ to sign for Dale
ROCHDALE have added one of the most highly-rated players from the amateur game to their squad for the 2020 season.
Thatto Heath captain Andy Lea has signed a one-year deal with Matt Calland’s side after three years as skipper of the National Conference League side.
“I was made up when given the offer to sign,” said the 27-year-old loose forward.
“I’ve been really enjoying my rugby the past couple of years at Thatto in the NCL but when the opportunity came, it felt the right time to take it. I can’t wait to get started.”
Lea was captain of the Lancashire side in the BARLA tri-series earlier this year and toured Fiji in 2018 with the BARLA Great Britain Open Age team.
“Andy signs for us from Thatto Heath in the NCL,” said Calland.
“He comes with great leadership qualities and a real winning mentality.
“He has been captain not only of his club side but also his country, along with other international representative honours.
“He has great skill levels and is a real workhorse in defence.”
Lea’s arrival at the Crown Oil Arena is the latest in series of signings and comes hot on the heels of the addition of promising young winger Sam Freeman from Widnes Vikings.
“I’m made up to have signed for Rochdale,” said the 20-year-old.
“I felt really welcome as soon as I stepped into the club and was impressed with their plans and vision to drive the club forward.
“I’ve had a few sessions and have been impressed with the set-up and the lads at the club and I’m really looking forward to pushing on this year and trying to get the club back into the Championship.”