Tom Ashton to retire at end of season

Rochdale Hornets outside back Tom Ashton will retire from rugby league at the end of the season.

After more than a decade of service to the sport, Ashton will hang up his boots following Sunday’s season finale against Oldham at the Crown Oil Arena. 

He is currently in his second spell with the club, having returned ahead of the 2025 season. 

Ashton has featured 32 times for the Hornets since then, scoring 17 tries. 

The majority of those came during the 2025 campaign, when Ashton bagged an impressive 13 tries in 15 appearances. 

A model professional on and off the field, Tom and his family will always be welcome at the Crown Oil Arena. 

“After nearly 30 years of playing rugby, my journey is finally coming to an end,” he said.

“From picking up a ball at six years of age to playing semi-professionally from 17, rugby has been a huge part of my life. It’s given me memories I’ll never forget, friendships that will last a lifetime, and experiences that have made me the person I am today.

“I want to thank every club, coach, team-mate and friend who has played a part in my journey. To my family, thank you for the endless support, sacrifices and belief over the years.

“To my wife, thank you for standing beside me through every high, low, injury, win and loss. And to my children who I have missed out on many weekends and evenings of time together. I couldn’t have done it without you all.

“And to my grandad who we lost in 2023, it wasn’t ever quite the same without you watching on the sidelines. Thank you for believing in me and being there every step of the way. A huge part of this journey belongs to you.

“I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve achieved and, most importantly, the people I’ve met along the way.

“One last time - thank you, rugby.”

Rochdale Hornets chairman Andy Mazey said: “When you recruit experienced players into a club, it's usually always in the knowledge that it's likely to be the final chapter for them in their careers. 

“Tommy has had two stints during my tenure, and we have also done business together outside of rugby. 

“It has been great to get to know him and his family, who I know mean the world to him. He can finish his career with immense pride in his achievements, the memories he has made, and the way he has carried himself. 

“I consider him a friend, and look forward to seeing him flourish in his life after rugby.”