HORNETS CONFIRM PERMANENT SIGNING OF JACK GATCLIFFE

Rochdale Hornets are excited to announce the permanent signing of Jack Gatcliffe after a successful trial period.

Gatcliffe, who has featured in the squad during our three pre-season fixtures against Widnes, Oldham and Salford’s reserves impressed and offers the Hornets a good option in the halves.

 The halfback, formally of the Halton Farnworth Hornets signs for Rochdale as the club looks to have a strong season in the hope of competing at the top end of League One.

 24-year-old Gatcliffe spoke on his signing and said: “Means a great deal to be able to have signed with the club.

 “It’s great to get an opportunity to play at this level. We’ve got a great squad and coaching staff and we’ve shown that through training and pre-season.

 “With me being added into the squad, in the halves, I hope to add some extra ability into games and still play with the same speed, intensity and structure, which we aim to use to get wins.”

 Hornets Chairman Andy Mazey has worked closely with Head coach Gary Thornton and CEO Steve Kerr to form a strong side for 2023 and Gatcliffe only adds to that.

 Mazey said: “It’s really pleasing to see yet another young man who backed himself to come in on a trial basis like Luke Forber.

 “Jack has worked hard throughout pre-season. He has certainly impressed Gary and the staff enough to earn his first team contract in the professional game. Well done Jack and welcome to the Hornets family.”

 Head coach Thornton is looking forward to seeing Gatcliffe in his side, he said: “Jack has come in on a trial basis for pre-season and has adapted really well.

"Whilst we have some excellent pivots in the squad, we feel Jack will complement them really well and give us competition for places and some cover in those crucial positions.

"He was really good last weekend against Salford's reserves and has applied himself well in pre-season and we hope he can kick on and develop even further."

 Gatcliffe will wear the number 38 shirt for the Hornets in 2023.