Martyn Ridyard to hang up boots at end of season

Rochdale Hornets half-back Martyn Ridyard will retire from rugby league at the end of the season, bringing to an end his 17-year career in the professional game.

Ridyard has spent the last two seasons at the Crown Oil Arena, making 20 appearances in Hornets colours during that time. He also made a solitary loan appearance for the club back in 2020.

The half-back spent the majority of his career at Leigh, scoring more than 2,000 points in 250 games.

Ridyard is the third highest points scorer in Leigh Centurions history, making his debut back in 2009 in what was the first official game at Leigh Sports Village, where he had the honour of scoring the first try.

Spells at Swinton Lions and Oldham followed for the experienced half-back, who recently celebrated his 39th birthday. 

A consummate professional on the pitch, Ridyard also joined head coach Gary Thornton's backroom team ahead of the 2025 season.

Everyone at the club wishes Riddy and his family well for the future. 

“It’s not been an easy decision and I’ve had plenty of chats with my wife over the past 12 months,” Ridyard said.

“A couple of serious injuries have probably taken their toll, as it does with age, but I’m content with everything. 

“To play one professional game, I’m really happy to achieve that, so to get as many as I did is overwhelming. 

“I want to thank everyone from top to bottom. I’ve met some absolute gems at every club I’ve been involved with - people who are the heart and soul of rugby league.

“It has been a tough decision, but good things do come to an end and I think it’s time for somebody younger to step into my shoes.”

Rochdale Hornets head coach Gary Thornton said: “Martyn has had an outstanding career that he and his family should be very proud of. 

“As a coach, it is so important to have an on-field marshal at half-back that understands the game and also what is required from his team-mates, and he has that in abundance.

“A smart rugby brain with skills and ability to match, he has played at the highest level of the game and we were privileged to welcome him to our club for the final two seasons of his outstanding career. 

“It was an honour to be able to work with him and get to know him. He is a massive character and very popular member of any group, and has the respect of everyone.

“I really hope he goes out with a bang in our final game of the season and leaves a lasting memory on the Hornets fans.”

Chairman Andy Mazey said: "Martyn has been a great servant to the sport of rugby league, and his point-scoring record speaks for itself. 

“He holds legendary status in his hometown of Leigh, having scored more than 2,000 points in two spells at the club.

“I was honoured to be a director at Leigh in his earlier days. Martyn was the talisman of a great Leigh side that won everything you could win outside of Super League at that time, and was rightfully crowned Championship Player of the Year in 2014.

“One of the first things I did upon my arrival in Rochdale was pick up the phone to Leigh and get Martyn across on loan. 

“Sadly, the Covid-19 pandemic cut that spell short after only one league appearance, but we managed to bring him back and made him a Hornets player permanently in 2024.

“I’m delighted he has played the final two seasons of a stellar career with us here at Rochdale Hornets, and with his old mate Gregg McNally.

“Martyn is a legendary bloke off the field also and I know he will want to finish in style on Sunday.”

The club are also offering a special incentive for Leigh supporters wishing to attend the final game of Ridyard's career this Sunday. 

2025 Leigh Leopards members will be able to redeem a ticket to watch our game against Dewsbury Rams for £10, with children able to attend free of charge. 

These can be redeemed at the turnstiles with proof of membership.