Young forward Sam Littler arrives on one-year deal

Rochdale Hornets have completed the signing of talented young forward Sam Littler on a one-year deal.

The Blackpool-born powerhouse becomes the club's eighth new arrival ahead of the 2027 season.

Littler starred for Salford at reserve and academy level during the 2025 season, earning a move to Oldham for the following year.

He scored a try in his only first-team appearance for the club, and also enjoyed time on loan at fellow Championship sides Keighley Cougars and North Wales Crusaders.

At 19 years of age, Littler is someone the club has identified as a rising star of the game, and we are delighted that he has chosen Rochdale Hornets as the next destination on his journey.

"[Rochdale] is a big club with a rich history," he said.

"I've been speaking with Andy Mazey and Gary Thornton about the ambitions of the club, building on the history it already has, and it was really attractive to me.

"There are a lot of good young players here, and I'm really excited to get started. 

"I like to base my game off work ethic. I won't stop moving, and we'll fight for everyone on the pitch. I'm here to win, create some good memories for the fans, get good minutes under my belt and really kick on.”

Rochdale Hornets chairman Andy Mazey said: "Sam is a talented, athletic and hard-working young forward who is joining us from our neighbours Oldham for 2027.

“His performances this year at Championship level, operating as both a middle and back-row forward, have caught Gary Thornton’s eye.

“Sam has an excellent attitude and is a model professional, and we are looking forward to seeing him develop further as a player here at Rochdale Hornets in 2027 and hopefully beyond."