Myles Harrop commits immediate future to Hornets

Rochdale Hornets centre Myles Harrop has agreed a contract extension which will see him remain at the Crown Oil Arena until at least the end of 2025.

Harrop joined the club at the beginning of the 2024 season after injuries derailed his 2023 campaign with Swinton Lions, seeing him play only three times following a move from Betfred Super League side Salford Red Devils.

Since joining the Hornets, Harrop has shown the form that saw him earn his Super League debut and score a try in his only appearance for Salford against Warrington Wolves in September 2022.

Harrop expressed his excitement at committing his future to the Hornets, saying: “I’m buzzing to have signed on for next season. It was definitely an easy decision to make.

“Since I’ve arrived at Rochdale, I’ve been able to come in and play my best rugby because of the incredible players around me and Gary Thornton’s trust in me to express myself.

“Confidence in my own ability hasn’t changed, despite some injuries, and I’m looking forward to keeping performing and hopefully getting that promotion.”

This season, Harrop has scored five tries in 12 games, including four in three matches between April and May against North Wales Crusaders, Keighley Cougars and Cornwall.

Such form has seen him attract interest from rival Betfred League 1 clubs and teams in the Betfred Championship, but Harrop has opted to remain at the Crown Oil Arena to continue his development. 

Rochdale Hornets chairman Andy Mazey said: “I’m delighted to be able to say that Myles has agreed to stay at Rochdale for the 2025 season. 

"It’s very pleasing that Myles feels his future lies at Rochdale, and I feel it’s a testament to the great environment we have here to continue his development.

“He’s already a very good player, but we feel there is a lot more to come from him.”

Head coach Gary Thornton, who also recently signed a new deal that will see him remain at the helm for the 2025 season, believes that retaining Harrop is a statement of intent as his side looks to challenge at the top of the division. 

“He’s shown how good he’s been this season when he’s fully fit both in attack and defence,” Thornton said.

“Keeping players of Myles’ quality is absolutely key to us progressing and kicking on as a team, so I’m pleased that we’ve come to an agreement.”