Mark Ioane extends Hornets stay

Rochdale Hornets front-rower Mark Ioane has signed a new one-year deal, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2027 season.

Ioane arrived at the Hornets on a short-term dcontract back in June.

Bringing a wealth of experience from the Betfred Super League, NRL and Championship to the Crown Oil Arena, Ioane made his debut in a 34-22 victory over Keighley Cougars.

He went on to feature nine times more for the Hornets before the end of the campaign, quickly establishing himself as a key figure within the club's forward pack. 

The 35-year-old is a consummate professional, both on and off the field, and is exactly the kind of player who the club hopes can help drive standards heading into 2027.

“I’m really excited for next year,” he said.

“I came in late last season and was welcomed by the club and fans, so I feel it’s the right decision to continue for another year and bring my experience into a young, ambitious group.

“I can’t wait to see us continue to improve and build into what we hope will be a really successful season.”

Rochdale Hornets head coach Gary Thornton said: "I'm really pleased to have Mark on board for another season. 

"We were lucky to get him midway through last season due to the demise of North Wales Crusaders, and as soon as he came in, the value he adds was clearly obvious.

"He carries tough and is a force in the middle. Backed up by some physical defence, it puts him up there as a top-quality Championship front-rower, respected by all in this league.

"But it is his leadership qualities that are also so important to our group. He’s a thorough professional with fantastic pedigree, and a great role model for our young forwards who will learn a lot from the way he plays and conducts himself.

"I’d like to add a massive thank you to Andy Mazey, Carl Halstead and Jason Wilson for making this deal happen, as Mark has a vital role to play in the progression of our squad in 2027."