Hornets launch women’s RL team

ROCHDALE Hornets will launch their Women’s Rugby League team when they hold an open training session at The Soccer Factory in Castleton.

The session will start on Sunday, January 27th at 10am when the full plans will be outlined followed by the first coaching session, finishing at 12.

Niel Wood, Rochdale Hornets Foundation chairman, said: “Our ambition is to create a team that the rugby players and athletes of the area can get involved with and grow into something really successful and develop a long-term pathway for female players.

“We are treating this as a third major team under the banner of Rochdale Hornets, joining the men’s and wheelchair teams.”

Hornets Women will be led by Sophie Cox as Director of Rugby. Sophie is an elite athlete in her having represented Great Britain at Judo at the Olympic Games and medalled at European level in her sport. She is also a high-level coach and mentor and was the first ever female to play Rugby League at Wembley when she represented Rochdale Schools in 1993.

Former Mayfield loose forward David Chrimes will be the head coach assisted by Hornets Community Coach Kirsty Crehan, who will also act as Team Manager.

There are further appointments to make in the backroom staff and anyone interested is welcome to attend the session. Everyone is welcome at the open day regardless of experience - register your interest by emailing foundation@ hornetsrugby league.com.