Hornets sign Ben O’Keefe on loan from Wigan Warriors

Rochdale Hornets is delighted to announce the signing of Ben O’Keefe, on an initial two-week loan deal.

O’Keefe joins us from Super League side Wigan Warriors, and is a welcome addition to an already strong squad.

After graduating from Warriors’ academy the 19-year-old has been playing for their reserve side, and recently caught the eye when he scored four tries against Bradford Bulls - in a 50-0 win.

O’Keefe already has strong ties to the club; his father, Paul, played at stand-off for Hornets in the 1991/92 season.

Head Coach Matt Calland, who played with Paul during his time at the club, said: “Ben has been on my radar for a while.

“He’s a young local lad, who’s hungry to come and play for Rochdale so he can follow in his Dad’s footsteps.

“Ben’s done really well since making the step up from academy rugby and as Wigan’s reserves have no game for a few weeks, we saw this as a great opportunity.

“We’re delighted that Wigan have let him join us on a two-week loan deal.”

Andy Mazey, Chairman, is equally excited by the opportunity.

He said: “Ben is a great fit for us being a local lad, and having a family connection with the club.

“We have been keeping an eye on his situation at Wigan, for a while now, and are very grateful to them for allowing this deal to happen.”

O’Keefe will be in contention to play his first Hornets game this Sunday, at home to Hunslet (3:00pm kick-off).