Rochdale Hornets announce key retention and new signing ahead of 2025 season

Rochdale Hornets has confirmed a double boost ahead of the 2025 campaign, with the re-signing of experienced half-back Martyn Ridyard and the addition of promising young hooker Oli Burton.

Both moves reflect the club's ambition as they look to build on recent progress.

Martyn Ridyard, 38, has committed to a new one-year deal that will see him remain at the Crown Oil Arena for a second successive season. Ridyard, who joined from Oldham ahead of the 2024 campaign, made 14 appearances in his debut year for the Hornets, scoring once and kicking 69 goals.

However, his season was cut short due to a serious ankle injury in July against Workington.

Despite the setback, Ridyard remains eager to contribute in 2025. “I’m really happy to be sticking around for at least another season,” he said. “It was a really easy decision, and I’m looking forward to it.

"I’d like to thank Andy Mazey and Gary Thornton for the opportunity to continue this journey. The hard work starts now as we prepare for next season, and I’m looking forward to getting back to it.”

Hornets chairman Andy Mazey praised the veteran half-back, saying: "This is a huge retention for the club and fantastic news for our supporters. 

“Martyn has been integral to our progress, and he’s a real asset both on and off the field. I believe he has a bright future as a head coach, and working alongside Gary Thornton will only further his development.”

 

 

Meanwhile, the club has also confirmed the signing of 22-year-old hooker Oli Burton, who arrives on a one-year deal after departing Betfred Championship side Batley Bulldogs. Burton, a former England and Leeds Rhinos academy player, made 35 appearances for Batley, including 21 last season.

“I’m really excited to be joining Rochdale,” Burton said of his move. “The club has big ambitions going forward, and hopefully I can be a good addition to the squad and push for big things next season.”

Head coach Gary Thornton expressed his delight at securing Burton’s services: “Oli is a quality hooker with both League 1 and Championship experience. 

“He came through a great academy system at the Rhinos, and I’m confident he will be a real threat to any opposition we face. He’s got pace out of dummy half, an eye for a try, and is strong defensively.”

Mazey echoed Thornton’s enthusiasm for the new signing, adding: “Oli is another quality recruit for 2025, and we are thrilled to have secured his services. Our aim has always been to retain our best performers while strategically adding to the squad, and Oli fits perfectly into that plan.”

With Ridyard’s wealth of experience and Burton’s youthful energy, the Hornets appear well-positioned as they look ahead to the 2025 season, hoping to build on their recent successes and make a strong push in the upcoming campaign.