Norman Short

Rochdale Hornets is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former player Norman Short, aged 89.

Short was voted in the Heroes of Hornets XIII several years ago, and was another of Hornets Leigh born one club men of that era. 

Awarded heritage number #605, he made his debut on December 13, 1952, in a home match against Widnes. Throughout his career he kicked one goal according to the records and it was in that very same game he made his debut, a 2-7 defeat. 

He played for Hornets over a period of 13 years in the first team, making 329 appearances. 

Norman scored a total of 94 tries which included five hat tricks. 

He performed the feat twice against Dewsbury, (1953/54 and 1956/57 seasons), twice against Blackpool Borough (1956/57 and 1962/63 seasons) and in his debut season, 1952/53 season against Liverpool City which were his only tries in the nine games he played. 

His last games were on April 20 1965 at home to Barrow, followed by on April 24 1965 against Huddersfield away in a play-off defeat. 

All at the club would like to send their prayers and best wishes to Norman’s family and friends at this sad time. RIP.