Hornets sign Ethan O’Hanlon for 2023

Ethan O’Hanlon becomes the second player to switch from Hunslet to Rochdale this close season, after the arrival of hooker Cam Berry last week.

The 21-year-old is revelling at the chance to be a part of Gary Thornton’s squad for 2023.

O’Hanlon said: “It’s a pleasure to have been given this opportunity and I can’t wait to get stuck in.

“The lads have had an impressive 2022, and I’m confident we can build on that next year, and compete at the top of League 1 once again.”

Like Berry, the prop forward came through the Bradford Bulls academy before making the switch to the South Leeds Stadium, where he was very impressive under Alan Kilshaw.

As a result, Hornets head coach Thornton is thrilled that O’Hanlon has decided to play his rugby in Rochdale next season.

He said: “Ethan is a promising young prop forward, who stepped up to League 1 level with ease last season.

“A former Bulls academy player, he was sought after by a number of clubs and I am absolutely delighted he has chosen to come to us.

“He’s a big robust front rower, and a real handful in the middle of the field. He will get us on the front foot with his aggressive carries and can defend tough too.

“He’s really looking forward to a new challenge this season, and I think Ethan will become a big fans favourite pretty quickly.”

Hornets chairman Andy Mazey is also excited by the potential of the club’s latest acquisition.

“Gary moved quickly to secure Ethan ahead of rival clubs and he is a very powerful 6ft 1in, 16 stone front-row man.

“Like Cam Berry, he now has plenty of League One experience under his belt having originally came through the talent conveyor belt at Bradford Bulls.

“It’s exciting to see the 2023 pack taking shape and I know Ethan is the type of tough, uncompromising, player our supporters will take to their hearts. Welcome to Hornets, Ethan.” To sponsor O’Hanlon in 2023, contact Steve.Kerr@hornetsrugbyleague.com

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