25 Oct 2022

Duane Straugheir joins Hornets for 2023

Rochdale Hornets is delighted to announce the signing of back-row forward Duane Straugheir, for the 2023 Betfred League 1 season.

The 33-year-old brings with him a wealth of experience having represented Bradford Bulls, Featherstone Rovers, York City Knights, Sheffield Eagles and most recently Hunslet – where he was club captain.

In his time representing the Yorkshire outfit, Straugheir was made skipper by then head coach Gary Thornton and now can’t wait to work under him again.

He said: “I’m looking forward to the new challenge, I’m grateful for the opportunity, and I’m ready for a big pre-season - and an even bigger 2023 season - under one of the best blokes in the game.”

Thornton himself is equally pleased, having been keen on a reunion since he took up the head coach role permanently back in September.

He said: “I worked with Duane for 3 seasons at Hunslet, where he was my captain. He will bring fantastic leadership qualities to the group, on and off the field, and is a model professional.

“He was one of the first people I contacted when I was offered the Head Coach role for next year, because of the trust built up over that period at Hunslet.

“He is also a terrific person and will put his heart and soul into everything he does, which will make him a popular member of our squad. He is a very experienced back rower at both Championship and League 1 level, and will pass on that experience and knowledge to the younger players in our group.

“He’s had an injury-hit 2022, so will be fresh and ready to go because of that, and I know he is chomping at the bit to get back into pre-season and get cracking again.”

In his time at Sheffield, Straugheir was the winner of two Championship Grand Finals and Hornets chairman Andy Mazey is pleased to have such experience in the camp for next season.

“It’s no secret we will have a much younger looking squad in 2023, so it’s absolutely vital to have a core of experienced players and proven leaders around the place who can positively influence the younger lads.

“Duane is a player Gary trusts having captained and led teams for him in the past and he is very highly respected in the game generally. It’s a massive boost for us to have secured his services for 2023.”

To sponsor Duane in 2023, contact Steve.Kerr@hornetsrugbyleague.com

Squad announced so far: Nixon, Killan, Purcell, Connolly, Swarbrick, Boardman, Berry, O’Hanlon, Roden, Straugheir.

Image taken from Yorkshire Evening Post.

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