Rochdale Hornets confirm 13 departures including former Wigan Warriors winger

As Rochdale Hornets prepare for the 2022 Betfred League 1 campaign, the club has confirmed the departures of 13 players.

Former St Helens academy player Rob Fairclough will leave the club by mutual consent after an ACL injury away at Coventry last season.

The halfback joined the club last season after a spell at Swinton Lions. Meanwhile, another member of their spine, Ben Moores, is also leaving the club after five years with the Hornets with the experienced hooker becoming a fan favourites during his time there.

Former Wigan winger Shaun Ainscough has also left the club after three seasons with the club. He made his Super League debut in 2009 catching the eye alongside Sam Tomkins with a number of tries for the Warriors. He then spent time on loan at Widnes and Castleford before joining Bradford in 2011.

Since he’s made a name for himself in the lower divisions with Whitehaven and Batley.

Head Coach Matt Calland was eager to wish the departing 13 well but noted it was a part of the sport:

“It’s part of sport, as each season players move on or are forced to retire through injury.

“We have lost two great players to Hunslet, who are both great kids and I wish them well.

“Last season we lost Callum Ogden, Jack Higginson, Sam Freeman and Rob Fairclough all to career-threatening injuries. They are all great players and have represented the club to the best of their abilities and were a pleasure to coach.

“I’d like to thank all departing players and wish them well for the future.

“Our attention now turns to preparations for the exciting 2022 League 1 campaign, with the recent positive news of the re-signings of captain Sean Penkywicz, Rangi Chase and Fuifui Moimoi, while also adding experienced players such as Gregg McNally.”

Here’s the list of 13 players players leaving the Hornets this winter:

Rob Fairclough
Jordan Syme – Hunslet
Josh Jordan-Roberts – Hunslet
Jack Higginson
Callum Ogden
Shaun Ainscough
Sam Freeman
Declan Sheridan
Danny Yates
Adam Hesketh
Ben Moores
Lee Registe
Shaun Robinson