Rochdale Hornets to feature at Women's Nines for first time

Rochdale Hornets Women will take part in the RFL's Women's Nines event for the first time this season.

Off the back of last season's promotion campaign, the Hornets Women are one of eight sides who will take part in the event at Community Grade level. 

This year's event will be held at Edge Hill University on Saturday 2 May. 

This year’s festival will include two separate competitions: Challenge Grade and the aforementioned Community Grade. 

The introduction of these grades allows more community teams to get involved, whilst maintaining competitive and enjoyable matches for all participants. 

The Challenge Grade will feature teams from across both professional and community clubs, including teams from the Betfred Women’s Super League, Women’s Super League academies, the National Championship and League 1. The diversity of teams entering will ensure a day of tightly contested matches and fun-filled action.

Last year, several members of our women’s team featured for strategic partners London Broncos at the Nines event.

Molly Udale-Williams, Evie Barnes, Lisa Berding & Eva Peroti all had the chance to feature for the Broncos as they reached the final of the Women's Nines Cup. 

Two further players from the Hornets Women were also represented on the day, with Sam Brazier and Kate Howard featuring for Leigh. 

Women’s head coach Ben Bird said: "Last year we had a handful of our squad given the opportunity to take part in the Nines through our relationship with London Broncos. 

"The whole day was such a positive experience for everyone, so when the opportunity came about to take part in this year's event in Hornets colours, it was a no-brainer. 

"We have an exciting young squad who I feel might translate well in to the Nines. Although we will go into the day just looking to enjoy it, we will try our best to represent the club in the best way possible."