Hornets forge Bulls link

Hornets have established a link with Super League outfit Bradford Bulls.

The partnership will help develop rugby league in the two towns and enable young players to switch between the two sides.

Bulls' youngsters could gain vital league experience with Hornets, while Bradford can mould Rochdale players into Super League stars.

Joe Pitts, Hornets' chief operating director, said: "This is fantastic for the development of players in the Rochdale community.

"Previously we could offer players the opportunity of playing for our Under-17 team but now, if they have the potential, they can look forward to being developed by a Super League club with the stature of the Bradford Bulls and either being successful and being offered a contact there or being allowed to return to us with so much more experience.

"We will also have the opportunity of playing fringe Bulls players in our team, which again will have many spin-offs and will help the development of our own players."

Bulls will play a pre-season friendly with Hornets in 2011 and assist with fundraising.

Added Paul Medley, Bradford Bulls’ Head of Youth Development: “Through this partnership with the Hornets we will assist players and coaches in developing their individual rugby league skills to help them maximise their potential. This will undoubtedly benefit the Hornets club which in turn benefits the Rochdale community as a whole. Rochdale and Bradford may be in different counties but in reality they are virtual neighbours with much in common and sharing a tremendous rugby league heritage.”