Roden’s on board for Hornets campaign

AIDEN Roden has committed to Rochdale Hornets’ 2023 Betfred League 1 season.

Having joined the club at the beginning of 2022 from Wigan Warriors, the hooker was impressive in his first season with the club and is excited by the chance to put on the Hornets shirt again next year.

He said: “I’m delighted to have signed for another year at Rochdale.

“Last year was the most enjoyable rugby I have ever played and I’m buzzing to get back going.”

The 22-year-old was a regular in the matchday 17, throughout the season, and cemented his place as first-choice hooker after the retirement of Sean Penkywicz.

As a result, Hornets head coach Gary

Thornton is confident Roden will continue to develop and impress in 2023.

He said: “I’m delighted Aiden has decided to stay for another season. He grew into a top-class hooker at League 1 level, as the season went on, and I expect him to kick on and be even better next season.

“Aiden is tough and uncompromising in defence, and quick out of dummy half, so has all the attributes needed to cause opposition teams problems.

“He was one of the success stories for us last season having joined us from Wigan’s academy, and soon established himself as a popular member of the group.

“Hooker is a key position, and it was important we retained Aiden – we also need to build the squad around such talented youngsters as him.”

Chairman Andy Mazey is equally encouraged by the acquisition.

He said: “We are delighted to retain Aiden as he is a quality player who ended the season in superb form, which put him on the radar of a number of Championship clubs.

“He is a credit to his parents Theresa and Martin, Martin being a former professional player and current head coach at Leigh East so knows the game inside out.

“It speaks volumes about what we are doing here at Rochdale that he was very keen to see Aiden stay and continue his development under Gary.

“I’d also like to thank Ian Sibbit - Aiden’s agent - for working with me to get this one sorted.”