Dave Ramsbottom and Hayley Price to leave club

Rochdale Hornets can confirm the departure of long-serving team manager Dave Ramsbottom and medical lead Hayley Price following the conclusion of the 2025 season.

Ramsbottom has been a stalwart of the club for many years, having first taken on the role of team manager 15 years ago. 

Ramsbottom is a well-known figure on the Rochdale rugby league scene at both professional and amateur level.

A much-loved and respected figure in the Hornets dressing room, Ramsbottom will leave big shoes to fill and we wish him all the very best in the next chapter of his life.

“Rugby League is not just about the game - it's also about the people within it,” he said. 

“In my time at the Hornets, I have had the fortunate opportunity to meet many people who have left long standing impressions upon me, from opposition players and staff to dedicated supporters from other clubs and even match officials. 

“But for me, without doubt , the best people I have come across are from within the Hornets family, players, staff, board and most importantly our loyal fans.

“I have been very privileged to be part of a group of people that have collected silverware on two occasions, and the memories of those events will stay with me indefinitely.

“The future looks bright, and I am sure that under Andy Mazey and Matt Rigby’s off-field steer and focus and with Gary Thornton and his coaching staff’s management, Rochdale Hornets will, as they always do, hold their own.

“My sincere best wishes to everyone at the Hornets for the forthcoming 2026 season. I very much look forward to cheering on the boys from a very different viewing point from the one I have been accustomed to over the last 15 years.”

Also saying goodbye following the conclusion of the 2025 season is medical lead Price, who has spent the last four seasons with the club. 

During that time, she has been an integral part of the team and brought warmth, vibrancy and immense knowledge to every training session and matchday. 

A consummate professional, she will now take on an exciting role within the RFL's medical department. 

Both Dave and Hayley leave with our very best wishes for the future.

On their departures, Rochdale Hornets chairman Andy Mazey said: "Rammy is a legend of our club and will always remain part of the Hornets family. 

“He informed the club of his decision to step aside at the end of this year in order to spend more time with his wife and family. 

“We fully understand and respect his decision after 15 years of loyal service, and on behalf of the board and everyone at the club, I would like to thank him for everything. 

“He will always be made most welcome at Rochdale Hornets and will remain a part of this special family. 

“Likewise, Hayley has been at the club for the majority of my tenure and has been a fantastic asset to us. 

“We thank her for all of her efforts and hard work, and like Rammy, she will always be very welcome at the club.”

In the coming days, the club will confirm head coach Gary Thornton's full backroom team for the 2026 season.