Hornets Women to face Greece in mid-season friendly

Rochdale Hornets’ women's team will host Greece in a mid-season international friendly on Saturday 25 July.

The event will feature as part of the club and Foundation's two-year anniversary at The Hive, home ground of our Hornets Women, and a thriving local community hub. 

Further details regarding the celebrations will be announced soon. 

The Hornets Women get their Women's Northern League 1 campaign underway with a home game against Illingworth on Sunday 19 April. To take a look at their full 2026 fixture list, click here.

"Right from the start in the planning of our rebirth as a team in 2024, we've always tried to think outside of the box when looking to support the players that commit to representing Rochdale Hornets," said women's head coach Ben Bird.  

"The relationship we have with Netherlands Rugby League is well-evidenced by the platform given to Dutch players without a domestic league to compete in. 

"Our work with dual-registration partners London and Leigh have also proved enormously beneficial for both parties. So when we were invited to work with Greece, as well as being a great privilege, it became the latest opportunity for us to establish another mutually beneficial relationship and another opportunity to promote the women's game. 

"The day itself will serve a dual purpose in celebrating the second anniversary of the opening of our home at Balderstone Park. 

"The game and the day will be a fantastic celebration of the Hornets and the women's game as a whole, and I hope to see supporters head down in their numbers to support us, as we have become accustomed to.”

Nikolas Stephanou, Greece women's head coach, said: "We’re looking forward to this tour as we don’t get many opportunities like these. 

"The game against Rochdale allows us to gain much-needed game time, as well as develop our depth. We deeply appreciate the opportunity provided by the club and we can’t wait to travel in July."