Whittel out to revive enjoyment

ROCHDALE Hornets have signed loose forward Emmerson Whittel on a deal until the end of the 2024 season.

Whittel joins the club following his recent departure from fellow Betfred League 1 side Oldham, where he made 64 appearances across two spells.

Prior to re-joining Oldham ahead of the 2022 campaign, Whittel spent time in Australia with Rockingham Sharks.

The 29-year-old also lists Bradford Bulls, Gloucestershire All Golds and Keighley Cougars among his previous clubs.

Discussing his move to the Crown Oil Arena, Whittel said: “I felt as if I needed to get back enjoying my rugby again and I knew most of the players here.

“It was still a tough decision as I had interest from other clubs, but I feel I’ve definitely made the right choice for me and my family. Rochdale is a great, historic club with a passionate fan base. I definitely couldn’t turn down the opportunity to be playing with a decent set of lads again, and I’d like to thank Andy Mazey and the board for bringing me to the club.

“On a personal level, I want to get back to enjoying playing rugby. I want us to be in the play-off picture as a minimum, come the end of the season, and I will definitely be doing everything I can to help the club gain promotion.”

Hornets chairman Andy Mazey said: “When Emmerson contacted me to say he was being released by Oldham, it was perfect timing having just lost Kenny Baker to retirement.

“As soon as I told Gary Thornton he was available, he did not hesitate and said ‘let’s do all we can to get him.’

“We moved quickly and secured his signature ahead of our rivals, and I believe we have added one of the most consistent performers in League 1 to our squad.

“Having done our homework on Emmy, we’ve heard nothing but the highest possible praise from former coaches and team-mates, labelling him as a true competitor, a winner and highlighting his consistency of performance week in and week out, which will only add to the culture Gary is creating here.

“What has struck me more than anything in the last few days speaking to Emmy is that he’s a no-nonsense bloke who just wants to get back playing and enjoying himself, so hopefully we can help get a smile back on his face.”

Whittel was named 18th man in the squad to face Hunslet at the Crown Oil Arena on Sunday.