Fans opted for co-operative model to save Hornets

Rochdale Hornets Rugby League at Norden Carnival

The Rochdale Hornets Rugby League is a co-operative business that followed in the footsteps of the Rochdale Pioneers and inspired a sporting co-operative movement. 

Co-operative Fortnight taking place 22 June to 6 July 2013 is a chance to recognise and celebrate a business model that is built on democratic and social justice principles as well as being commercially successful.

The club which started in 1872 racked up debts in excess of £55k and went into administration nine years ago but was saved by its loyal fans. Desperate to prevent their beloved club from going under, the Fans Association turned to the co-operative business model for a viable solution. Fans rallied support and the RFL, the governing body for Rugby League in the UK, accepted the co-operative business proposal.

The club became the first members-owned sporting team in the UK; since then other sporting teams that have adopted the model include Hemel Stags and FC United.

With 173 members to date, all shareholders have an equal stake in the club. Anyone can become a member for a minimum £20 annual subscription fee. This entitles members to one share and one vote on the board of committee.

Ryan Bradley, Rochdale Hornets CEO commented: “The co-op model has seen the club stabilise over the last few years and gives us the platform to prosper in the future. We have no ‘fat cats’ taking money out of the club, every penny generated through sponsorship, memberships and the like is re-invested into the club. The members elect a board from their peers to steer the club, meaning the fans are ultimately in charge of it’s destiny- a far cry from many other professional sports clubs where individuals have control over the club with supporters have little/no input.”