Tom Spencer comes out of retirement to join Hornets

Experienced prop forward Tom Spencer has put pen to paper on a one-year deal with Rochdale Hornets ahead of the 2025 season.

The deal will see Spencer come out of retirement, having previously hung up his boots following the conclusion of the 2022 season.

The 33-year-old arrives with plenty of experience, most notably from his time at Leigh, where he made 123 appearances across several seasons.

In his final year before retiring, Spencer made 22 appearances for Oldham.

Alongside his playing duties, Spencer will also take up a strength and conditioning role with the club as he looks to develop his expertise in a non-playing capacity.

On his return to rugby, Spencer said: “After recovering a bit mentally and physically since retiring, I’ve played a little bit socially in the amateur game and thought I might still have something to offer.

“I’d been thinking about getting back involved after retiring by helping out with strength and conditioning and coaching forwards. After striking a positive conversation with Martyn Ridyard, he suggested that Rochdale might be a good fit as he and Gregg McNally are at similar stages of their career.

“Once Gary Thornton and Andy Mazey got in touch, we discussed my potential for slotting in, and it seemed like a great opportunity for me to take.

“I’m looking forward to scratching my itch and taking on an exciting new challenge. I can’t wait to get stuck in.”

Rochdale Hornets head coach Gary Thornton said: “Tom has returned to the game following a knee injury. He has had a terrific career to date at Super League and Championship level, and his experience speaks for itself.

“It will be good to have another tried and tested middle unit player who brings size and presence. 

“Tom will also double up on his playing role and lead our strength and conditioning programme in pre-season.

“He is well respected in the game and is another great addition to our group.”